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(L-R) Ayo Ojuroye, Moses Itauma, Kunle Soname
Moses Itauma’s first round victory over Dilian Whyte in Saudi Araba, has further strengthened the global ambition of leading sports betting platform in Nigeria, Bet9ja.
Just days before Itauma’s big fight against Whyte, Bet9ja signed the boxing sensation as their new brand ambassador, in a bid to enhance the brand’s global visibility.
It also marked the brand’s entry into pugilism as it seeks to make a bold move out of Nigeria’s domestic market to play leading brands in the world.
Victory for Itauma equally reinforced the brands recent ‘Catch The BOOM!’ campaign.
Described as his biggest step-up of his career, Itauma finished the job in the first round to dismiss Whyte and confirmed his rating as the “Next Big Thing” in boxing.
Nigerian Pride
Itauma’s father maintained that his son’s Nigerian heritage is a critical factor in his rise.
Asked about his fast rise in two years, he replied: “I never expected that, but I knew he has the ingredients. He has the material as a typical Nigerian, that is all I know.”
Speaking before Saturday night’s victory, Itauma emphasized the importance of his Nigerian heritage.
While signing the deal with Bet9ja’s executives, Kunle Soname and Ayo Ojuroye, he said: “I’m delighted to be working with Bet9ja as I prepare for the biggest fight of my career so far. My Nigerian heritage and family have always been a source of pride, and this partnership is a powerful connection to my roots. I look forward to bringing my championship belts back to my father’s homeland.”
Soname
Bet9ja’s Executive Chairman, Kunle Soname, emphasized the alignment between the boxer’s journey and the company’s mission.
“In Itauma, we see the grit, passion, and never-say-die attitude that defines Nigerians. As a truly Nigerian company, these same values have driven Bet9ja to become the leading sports betting platform in the country.
Our collaboration with Moses reinforces our commitment to empowering talent and celebrating Nigerian excellence on the world stage,” he said
Comparison with Mike Tyson
Itauma has faced comparisons to heavyweight legend Mike Tyson, and has been endorsed by boxing giants, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua in the past.
Applause from Tyson Fury
Some of the best in boxing have since applauded his rise.
Former champion, Tyson Fury, posted on social media with the caption: “There he is, the future of boxing. I’ve been saying it for years.”
Itauma has already featured on major undercards such as Fury’s mouthwatering rematch against Oleksandr Usyk.
Future Leverage:
As Itauma climbs toward potential world title shots, Bet9ja will benefit from the growing global attention he attracts. Their ambassadorial role places them strategically close to emerging elite boxing narratives.
Itauma is truly destined for the pinnacle of the sport, and it appears he is just fights from a shot at world glory.
The Nigerian is already ranked as the leading contender with the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) behind interim champion, Joseph Parker.
Interestingly, Parker, was at the ring side in Saudi Arabia, on Saturday.
