Itauma’s next fight delayed amid WBA title negotiations

British-Nigerian heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma will not be returning to the ring in December as initially scheduled, with promoter Frank Warren confirming that the 20-year-old’s next outing will likely be pushed into 2026, Sport360NG reports.

Warren provided the update during a press conference at the weekend, revealing that the delay stems from ongoing discussions surrounding a potential mandatory fight with WBA Regular heavyweight champion Kubrat Pulev.

“We’ve got to see how the Pulev situation unfolds because the WBA has already ordered that fight, and Pulev can’t get out of it,” Warren explained. “If we announce something else for Moses now, they’ll say he’s not ready for Pulev and start pushing for the Gassiev fight. We don’t want to go down that route.”

Itauma had been tipped to feature on December 13 at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, the same event expected to host Derek Chisora’s farewell bout.

The Kent-born powerhouse last fought in August, demolishing former world title challenger Dillian Whyte in the first round of their contest in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The WBA has mandated Pulev to defend his title against Itauma, who currently sits as the organisation’s top contender. However, the 44-year-old Bulgarian has the option of one voluntary defence, with a clash against ex-cruiserweight champion Murat Gassiev pencilled in for December 12 in Dubai.

Warren, however, cast doubt on that matchup, saying, “They’re talking about fighting Gassiev in Dubai, but as far as I’m aware, the WBA hasn’t sanctioned that bout.”

Since turning professional in 2023, Itauma has quickly become one of boxing’s brightest heavyweight prospects, boasting 11 knockouts in 13 wins and earning a reputation as one of the sport’s future stars.