Watching Itauma’s recent stoppage win, Bradley praised the raw ability on display but pointed to a bigger issue developing behind the knockouts.
“This type of competition. It’s not good for him,” Bradley said. “They need to step his competition up.”
The former two-division champion explained that the problem isn’t confidence or talent. In his view, Itauma already believes he belongs at the top.
“He already believe that he the best in the world,” Bradley said. “I promise you, ask him that question. He gonna say me.”
Instead, Bradley focused on what happens when a fighter keeps facing opponents who can’t push back. He noted that certain habits are starting to show up, but no one has been able to take advantage of them.
“Sometimes he lunges with his left hand… I see it every fight,” Bradley said. “Nobody’s been able to make him pay.”
Bradley also said the unanswered questions that haven’t been forced into the open yet, particularly over stamina and pacing. Itauma has ended most of his fights early, leaving little evidence of how he performs deep into later rounds.
“I want to know in 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, can you keep going?” Bradley said.
Even in the fight he reviewed, Bradley noticed signs that Itauma is still learning how to manage his energy across rounds, adding that those issues only show up when a fighter is extended.
Despite the concerns, Bradley did not downplay Itauma’s upside. He highlighted the speed, power, and decision-making that stood out immediately, calling his mental processing one of his biggest strengths.
“What impressed me is how quick his processor is,” Bradley said.
Bradley’s view is simple: the talent is clear, but the next stage of Itauma’s career depends on whether his team starts matching him with opponents who can test it.
Read the full article here
