Moses Itauma reschedules bout with Jermaine Franklin due to injury
British heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma has been forced to reschedule his return to the ring after his scheduled bout with Jermaine Franklin was pushed back due to a training camp injury, reports BritPanorama.
The 21-year-old was set to face the American at Manchester’s Co-op Live on January 24, but the contest has now been rescheduled for March 28 at the same venue. Queensberry Promotions confirmed the two-month delay, stating, “Unfortunately Moses Itauma has sustained an injury in camp and therefore the Magnificent 7 show has been re-scheduled for March 28.”
The precise nature of Itauma’s injury remains undisclosed, yet he continues to hold an undefeated record of 13 wins, with 11 victories coming by way of stoppage. His most recent fight saw him overwhelm fellow Briton Dillian Whyte, a former world title challenger, in a matter of minutes last August, concluding the match in less than two minutes of the first round and solidifying his reputation as one of the division’s most promising talents.
Itauma’s impressive run includes nine consecutive wins by stoppage, with six of those victories occurring in the opening round. Franklin was selected specifically to provide Itauma with the opportunity for valuable ring time and experience in later rounds, known for his durability as he has never been defeated in 26 professional fights. Although Franklin has faced setbacks against former champions Anthony Joshua and Whyte, he took both encounters the full distance, losing on points.
As Itauma navigates this setback, his ambitions for a world title shot are becoming more complicated. The WBA has mandated that he faces Murat Gassiev, who won their ‘regular’ belt in December, while authorities have also ordered a WBC final eliminator against fellow British fighter Lawrence Okolie. Itauma’s trainer, Ben Davison, has even indicated willingness to face undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk, noting, “I would take it. It’s a win-win. As much as Moses hasn’t boxed anybody like Usyk, I don’t think Usyk’s boxed anybody like Moses.”
The situation highlights the unpredictability of the heavyweight division, where even the most promising prospects must recalibrate their paths amid unforeseen challenges. Itauma’s journey remains one to watch as he endeavors to climb the ranks while navigating the complexities that come with injury and the pursuit of championship glory.
