Young Gun Moses Itauma Eyes World Title Shot After Stunning Franklin Stoppage
In a display of raw talent and burgeoning ring prowess, 21-year-old Moses Itauma has sent shockwaves through the heavyweight division, with his promoter Frank Warren suggesting a world title opportunity could be on the cards as early as later this year. Itauma cemented his status as a rising star with a sensational fifth-round stoppage of experienced American Jermaine Franklin at a packed Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.
The victory, Itauma’s 14th professional win with 12 knockouts, was a decisive statement against a fighter who had previously gone the distance with formidable opponents like Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte. Franklin, who had never been stopped in his 26-fight career, was brought in to provide Itauma with valuable rounds and a stern test. While Franklin demonstrated resilience, absorbing significant blows, the gulf in class was evident throughout the contest. Itauma showcased superior speed, footwork, and intelligent ringcraft, leaving no doubt about his dominance.
Warren has indicated that Itauma will likely have one more bout in July before being considered for a shot at one of the major heavyweight belts – the WBC, WBA, IBF, or WBO. “He’ll probably fight in July,” Warren stated. “There’s a lot of fights over the next few months, we will sort something out. I’m pretty confident he will fight for a world title this year.”
Itauma’s recent form has been nothing short of explosive. Prior to facing Franklin, he had stopped his previous nine opponents before the end of the second round. While Franklin managed to withstand Itauma’s early onslaught, the inevitable end came in the third round when a punishing blow behind the left ear sent him to the canvas. Although Franklin managed to beat the count, the writing was on the wall.
The decisive moment arrived a couple of rounds later. Itauma landed a perfectly timed left uppercut, followed by a thunderous right hook that left Franklin crumpled face-first on the canvas. The initial uppercut appeared to have Franklin already on unsteady legs, but Itauma, demonstrating a killer instinct, ensured there was no room for ambiguity. Franklin’s corner protested the stoppage, but the American was down for a considerable period before rising unsteadily.
Itauma Reflects on Dominant Performance and Future Ambitions
Speaking after the fight, a jubilant Itauma expressed his satisfaction with the win and his gratitude to Franklin for stepping into the ring. “I’m happy to get the win,” Itauma said. “I’ve got to thank Jermaine Franklin for giving me this opportunity because it takes two to tango. I appreciate it.”
He admitted his initial intention was to secure an early knockout. “I tried to knock him out in the first or second round, but maybe not today, so I went back to the basics, switching down to the body, and the knockout just came. It’s the shot you don’t see.”
The young fighter also reflected on the rapid progression of his career. “When I first turned professional, I thought I was able to win titles but I didn’t think it would be so soon. I’m just a young boy chasing his dream.”
Potential Title Paths and Emerging Rivalries
The landscape of the heavyweight division is currently dominated by Oleksandr Usyk, the unified world champion. However, Usyk has previously dismissed the idea of facing Itauma due to his age. Usyk is scheduled to face former kickboxing world champion Rico Verhoeven on May 23 in Egypt.
Another potential pathway for Itauma could involve the winner of the upcoming WBO title defence between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, which is set to take place a fortnight before Usyk’s fight. Notably, both Wardley and Dubois are also promoted by Frank Warren, creating a clear promotional alignment for a future Itauma showdown.
Itauma himself has expressed interest in facing Filip Hrgovic, a former interim IBF title challenger. Hrgovic is slated to fight Dave Allen in Doncaster in May. “We will go back to the drawing board and see who’s there, see who’s available, I’ll be back soon,” Itauma concluded, signalling his readiness for the next chapter in his promising career. His swift rise and devastating power suggest that a world title shot is not a matter of if, but when.
