In a jaw-dropping turn of events at 01:00 AM +07 on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, Dillian Whyte has officially withdrawn from his highly anticipated fight against Moses Itauma, scheduled for September 20, 2025, at Wembley Arena. The shocking last-minute decision, confirmed by promoter Eddie Hearn via a late-night statement, has left the boxing world reeling and fans scrambling for answers. This bombshell comes just hours after mounting pressure and controversy, turning a promising heavyweight clash into a chaotic scramble.

The Shocking Withdrawal

The news broke at 01:00 AM +07 when Hearn released a statement on X: “It is with regret that Dillian Whyte has pulled out of the fight with Moses Itauma. Further details to follow.” The abrupt exit follows weeks of turmoil for Whyte, including a failed drug test on July 25, 2025, revealing trace amounts of an anabolic steroid, and a pending court date on August 12 for a misdemeanor domestic violence charge. Whyte, 37, with a 31-3 record, cited “personal reasons” in a brief message to his team, but the timing—less than six weeks before the fight—has fueled speculation of deeper issues.

Moses Itauma, the 19-year-old undefeated prospect with a 10-0 record, was preparing for his biggest test yet. The withdrawal leaves his camp and the event organizers in disarray, with Hearn promising an update by midday.

The Build-Up and Controversy

The Whyte-Itauma matchup was set after Whyte’s initial fight with Agit Kabayel was canceled due to the doping violation, confirmed by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) on August 6, 2025. Despite the suspension, Hearn pushed for the rescheduling, viewing it as a showcase for Itauma’s rise. However, Derek Chisora’s public demand on August 10 for Whyte to pull out, citing the doping scandal, intensified pressure. Whyte’s silence and legal troubles—his court appearance looms today—likely contributed to the sudden retreat.