Following Joshua’s defeat, the Ben Davison Performance Centre was left in a heavy atmosphere that impacted everyone, including rising star Moses Itauma.
Anthony Joshua’s recent loss to Daniel Dubois cast a heavy shadow over the Ben Davison Performance Centre, affecting not only his career but also the morale of his trainer and fellow fighters. Young heavyweight contender Moses Itauma, who trains under Davison’s guidance, described the atmosphere as deeply somber, akin to the aftermath of a personal loss. For Itauma and his gym mates, Joshua’s defeat was a sobering reminder of boxing’s unforgiving nature and the stakes at play for anyone climbing the ranks.
Joshua’s unexpected defeat in five intense rounds by Dubois shook his team and gym to the core, with the normally upbeat Ben Davison struggling to rally spirits. Itauma, a 19-year-old with high aspirations in the sport, explained that returning to the gym felt like entering a space of mourning. “The gym vibe was down,” Itauma shared. “Ben’s reaction reminded me that this isn’t just a sport; it’s a part of who we are. It mattered that he wasn’t just brushing it off.” For Itauma, Davison’s somber mood signaled a depth of commitment, one that Itauma believes is crucial for a coach guiding fighters to the top.
Despite the challenges, Itauma sees the reaction to Joshua’s loss as a catalyst, a spark pushing everyone to refocus on their individual paths. Having recently returned from a break and eager to train, he described how the emotional weight in the gym helped him channel that energy toward his next fight against Australian Demsey McKean on December 21. This atmosphere of seriousness reminded Itauma of his own goals and what it takes to achieve them.
Itauma’s determination to overcome
Itauma, who has already achieved ten wins in his early career, feels a heightened drive to succeed in the wake of Joshua’s loss. His path to success hasn’t been easy, and the weight of Joshua’s defeat underscores the resilience required in boxing. “When I came back from my holiday, I realized how much I need this,” Itauma said. “Boxing isn’t just a job; it’s part of me. I want to make an impact not only in the ring but in people’s lives.”
