Frank Warren Claims Oleksandr Usyk Rejects Moses Itauma Bout
Frank Warren says Oleksandr Usyk has rejected the idea of a bout against Moses Itauma. Warren believes the fight would sell out Wembley Stadium instantly.
Itauma faces a key challenge this weekend
Moses Itauma returns to the ring for the first time since August. He meets American Jermaine Franklin Jr. in Manchester on Saturday.
The card airs on DAZN at 10 p.m. Itauma is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Franklin is 24-2 with 15 knockouts.
Why Warren wants the matchup
Warren argues Itauma needs a tougher test. The Brit has only logged 26 professional rounds due to early stoppages.
If Itauma wins, Warren predicts huge demand for a fight with the unified heavyweight champion. He says the reward would be enormous.
Usyk’s plans and the perceived risk
Oleksandr Usyk is scheduled to face Rico Verhoeven on May 23 in Egypt for the WBC title. Verhoeven is a former kickboxing champion.
Usyk has outlined two other targets before retirement. He wants the winner of Fabio Wardley versus Daniel Dubois and a trilogy with Tyson Fury.
Frank Warren frames the situation as risk versus reward. He believes Usyk would likely decline a dangerous, low-reward bout with a young prospect.
| Fighter | Record | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moses Itauma | 13-0 (11 KOs) | 21 years old; headlined in Manchester |
| Jermaine Franklin Jr. | 24-2 (15 KOs) | American veteran opponent |
| Oleksandr Usyk | Unified heavyweight champion | Facing Rico Verhoeven May 23 for WBC title |
Promoter perspective and commercial appeal
Warren says he would not put Usyk near Itauma if he managed the Ukrainian. He warns of substantial risk.
He added that, if Itauma wins, a Wembley date would sell out “in a heartbeat,” and pay-per-view interest would spike.
Itauma remains focused
Itauma says he is concentrating on beating Franklin. He insists he will build his career on his own merits.
He rejects the idea of relying on “passing of the torch” bouts. He wants to earn his opportunities directly.
Reporting by Filmogaz.com.
