Moses Itauma, a 21-year-old heavyweight sensation, has been making waves in the boxing world with his impressive record. He has stopped 11 of his 13 opponents, showcasing a remarkable ability to finish fights early. His last bout saw him knock out veteran Dillian Whyte in just one round in August 2025, solidifying his reputation as a rising star.
On March 28, 2026, Itauma will step into the ring against Jermaine Franklin at Co-op Live in Manchester. This highly anticipated matchup was originally slated for January 24, 2026, but was postponed due to an injury sustained by Itauma. Franklin, with a record of 22 wins and only 2 losses, has faced tough competition, including Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte, both of whom defeated him by points.
As Itauma prepares for this significant fight, he reflects on his journey, stating, “Let’s say I surpass Franklin… I don’t think that’s bad going.” His confidence is bolstered by the fact that he has spent only 354 seconds in the ring since the start of 2025, a testament to his efficiency and skill.
Itauma’s handlers emphasize the importance of quality over quantity in his development as a fighter. They believe that facing opponents like Whyte and Franklin at this stage of his career is crucial for his growth. Itauma himself remarked, “Having 13 fights and having Dillian Whyte, Demsey McKean and Mariusz Wach on your record, I think that’s not bad for somebody that’s been professional three years.”
Currently, Itauma is ranked No. 1 by the WBA and No. 3 by the WBC, positioning him as a formidable contender in the heavyweight division. His upcoming fight against Franklin is not just a test of skill but also a potential stepping stone towards a title shot.
As the boxing community eagerly awaits this showdown, Murat Gassiev’s coach, Anton Kadushin, expressed confidence in his fighter’s readiness, stating, “We won’t avoid him.” This sentiment reflects the competitive nature of the heavyweight division, where every fight can significantly impact a boxer’s career trajectory.
The main event ring-walks are expected to begin around 11 p.m. GMT, with the undercard starting at approximately 5 p.m. GMT. Fans are looking forward to an exciting evening of boxing, with Itauma’s fight being the highlight of the night.
With his talent and determination, Moses Itauma is poised to make a significant mark in the boxing world. Observers are keen to see how he performs against Franklin, and what this fight means for his future in the sport.
