Moses Itauma is being told to remain cautious over potential big fights in the heavyweight division amid his rapid rise in the boxing ring.
The 20-year-old is regarded as the hottest prospect in his weight class, and he demonstrated his ability when he brutally dismantled Dillian Whyte this past weekend in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Itauma knocked the former world title challenger out in just one round to take his overall record to 13-0. 11 of those victories have been a stoppage within two rounds.
The high levels of maturity shown in the British star's performances has got boxing fans and pundits debating just how ready he is for the biggest fights in the heavyweight division.
Some believe Itauma could cause problems for the big-name fighters including undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Itauma claimed earlier this year that he is the best boxer in his division because of his current skillset. Hence, he is unlikely to be fazed by potentially sharing the ring with any of the world's best competitors.
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Itauma urged to not take mega fights just yet
While Itauma has the belief that he could beat someone as accomplished and skilful as Usyk, British boxing icon Ricky Hatton is wary of throwing the rising star into the biggest fights too soon.
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The former two-weight world champion was impressed with the 20-year-old's display against Whyte, but suggests a fight with Usyk is not appropriate right now.
"It was a very experienced performance (against Whyte), way beyond his years. They're talking about Usyk next, woah, let's hold fire just a little bit," he told BBC Sport.
Hatton believes Itauma can dominate the heavyweight division in the future if he takes his time.
"Usyk will only have a couple (more fights). If you look at the heavyweights coming through, it's wide open for Itauma and I think he can clear up," he explained.
At 38, Usyk has virtually nothing left to accomplish in the ring, having become undisputed champion as a cruiserweight and heavyweight.
Also, previous heavyweight world champions Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are in the latter stages of their respective careers.
Instead of fighting Usyk next, Hatton has encouraged Itauma to take fights closer to home.
"Fabio Wardley or Frazer Clarke are good domestic fights. Domestic fights get your fanbase rising. I think that's what I'd do."
"Hold fire with Usyk. Get a bit better and then fight him," he added.
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