Rising British heavyweight Moses Itauma will have to wait longer for his next step toward world contention after an injury sustained in training forced the postponement of his scheduled bout against American Jermaine Franklin.
The highly anticipated heavyweight clash, originally set for 24 January at Manchester’s Co-Op Live Arena, has now been rescheduled for 28 March at the same venue, promoters Queensberry confirmed on Tuesday.
Training Setback Halts Momentum
In a statement announcing the delay, Queensberry said Itauma suffered an injury during his training camp, making him unable to compete later this month.
“Unfortunately Moses Itauma has sustained an injury in camp and therefore the Magnificent 7 show has been re-scheduled for 28 March,” the promoter said.
While details of the injury have not been disclosed, the postponement temporarily stalls the momentum of one of boxing’s most exciting young heavyweights.
Itauma’s Rapid Rise in the Heavyweight Division
The 21-year-old Itauma has rapidly built a reputation as one of the most dangerous prospects in the heavyweight division. He remains unbeaten in 13 professional fights, with 11 victories coming by knockout.
Even more impressively, each of his last nine wins has ended inside the distance, including six first-round stoppages, highlighting his explosive power and finishing ability.
Itauma’s standing as a serious contender was significantly boosted in August, when he knocked out former world title challenger Dillian Whyte, a win that accelerated calls for him to face higher-ranked opposition.
Franklin Brings Experience and Durability
Standing opposite him will be Jermaine Franklin, a seasoned American heavyweight with a record of 24 wins and two defeats. The 32-year-old has only lost to elite opposition, with his defeats coming against Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte.
Franklin is regarded as a durable, battle-tested opponent whose experience will provide a stern examination of Itauma’s readiness for the upper echelon of the heavyweight ranks.
A Delayed Path to Title Contention
Itauma’s inactivity in recent months has already been a source of frustration. He fought just twice in 2025 and had been expected to return to the ring on 13 December, but a series of complications delayed his comeback.
Several potential opponents reportedly turned down fights with the British prospect before the WBA ordered Itauma to face Bulgarian veteran Kubrat Pulev for the WBA ‘Regular’ heavyweight title.
That plan collapsed when Pulev instead opted to fight Murat Gassiev on 12 December — a bout he ultimately lost by sixth-round knockout, further complicating Itauma’s route toward a title opportunity.
Strong Undercard Remains in Place
Despite Itauma’s postponement, the March event in Manchester will still feature a strong supporting card.
- Willy Hutchinson (Scotland) is set to face Ezra Taylor (England) in a light-heavyweight co-main event
- An all-British featherweight clash between Liam Davies and Zak Miller is also scheduled
The rescheduled date ensures the event retains its high-profile appeal while allowing Itauma adequate recovery time.
What’s Next for Itauma?
Assuming a successful recovery, the March bout against Franklin represents a crucial test for Itauma as he continues his push toward world-level competition.
A convincing victory could place him firmly in line for a major title eliminator later in 2026 — while another delay would be a setback in a division where momentum is everything.
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