Moses Itauma returns this Saturday, and his promoter Frank Warren explains why unified champion Oleksandr Usyk does not have him in his sights.
Arguably the hottest prospect in world boxing, Moses Itauma (13-0, 11ko’s) returns to the ring this Saturday against Jermaine Franklin (24-2, 15ko’s).
In a step up in levels, many believe Franklin can be the man to give Itauma valuable rounds.
In recent times, Itauma has been on a demolition job.
Early knockout victories have been a common theme of the 21 year old’s career thus far.
Most notably, last time out, Itauma took out British boxing staple Dillian Whyte (31-4, 21ko’s) inside one round.
His raw athleticism, fast hands, and combination punches have many believing the man from Kent is the next heavyweight star.
At one point it seemed that the southpaw may be fast tracked into a world title shot, in an attempt to become the youngest ever heavyweight champion.
Now that this opportunity has passed, promoter Frank Warren is eyeing a world title shot by the end of 2026 for his star.
Early comparisons between Itauma and the current heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 14ko’s) have been made.
Fans have been calling for the pair to meet inside the squared circle before Usyk hangs up the gloves.
The three time undisputed world champion Usyk has played down talk of a potential fight with the new kid on the block recently.
Speaking to IFL TV, Frank Warren has revealed why Usyk does not want to fight Moses Itauma.
Warren stated: “It’s the risk vs reward”.
“I wouldn’t fight Moses if I was him”.
“Why would he want to fight this young kid, he has got a lot of respect for Moses”.
The Ukrainian has laid out the roadmap for his final chapter of what has been a glistening career in the sport.
Up first is a fight against Kickboxing world champion Rico Verhoeven (1-0, 1ko’s).
Whilst many have criticised this fight, Frank Warren stated: “He’s entitled to pick who he wants to fight”.
“In the meantime, there’s guys that have been working hard to get into mandatory positions”.
“The mandatories need to be accommodated for”.
Queensberry star Agit Kabayel is next in line for the WBC crown.
Whether Usyk faces his mandatory challenger or vacates the belt is yet to be seen.
With Itauma possessing number one rankings in governing bodies, victory in style this Saturday will undoubtedly put him right in the upper echelons of the heavyweight division.
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