Anthony Joshua open to world title fight with Moses Itauma

Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma: a potential heavyweight clash

The heavyweight boxing scene in the UK is buzzing with speculation about a possible showdown between former unified world champion Anthony Joshua and rising star Moses Itauma. Their promoters have hinted that a fight could be arranged, provided a world title is on the line. But what does this mean for British boxing fans, and how realistic is this matchup?

Promoters weigh in on the potential fight

Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter and a key figure in British boxing, has expressed cautious optimism about a bout with Itauma. While he acknowledges the risks of Joshua facing a young, talented fighter like Itauma, Hearn emphasises that if a world heavyweight title opportunity arose, they would embrace it without hesitation.

Frank Warren, who manages Itauma, shares this enthusiasm but with reservations. Warren is open to a Joshua vs Itauma fight but recognises the logistical and training complexities, noting that both fighters currently share the same trainer, Ben Davison. This relationship could complicate negotiations but also adds an intriguing dynamic to the potential matchup.

Assessing Moses Itauma’s readiness for a world title fight

Moses Itauma, still in the early stages of his professional career, has already made waves with a stunning first-round knockout of Dillian Whyte, a seasoned heavyweight contender. This victory demonstrated Itauma’s explosive power and technical skill, signalling his potential as a future world champion.

However, boxing legend Lennox Lewis believes Itauma is not quite ready for a world title challenge. Lewis suggests that Itauma should build experience and wait until dominant champions like Oleksandr Usyk retire before stepping into the top-tier heavyweight battles. This perspective underscores the importance of gradual progression in one of boxing’s most demanding divisions.

What Joshua’s experience brings to the table

At 15 years older than Itauma, Anthony Joshua’s career reflects the highs and lows of elite heavyweight boxing. Having been a unified heavyweight champion twice, Joshua offers a wealth of experience and resilience that a young fighter like Itauma has yet to develop. Joshua’s tactical approach, combined with his proven power and ring IQ, makes him a formidable opponent for any contender.

Challenges and opportunities for both fighters

Eddie Hearn highlights the risk-reward balance for Joshua in fighting Itauma. A win would mean overcoming a promising 20-year-old talent, solidifying Joshua’s legacy further. Conversely, a loss could have significant career implications, given Itauma’s youth and ascending trajectory.

For Itauma, a victory over a heavyweight icon like Joshua would fast-track his career, potentially catapulting him into the global heavyweight spotlight. Yet, Hearn advises a cautious approach, suggesting Itauma face other seasoned contenders such as Agit Kabayel, Martin Bakole, or Jarrell Miller first. These fights would test Itauma’s stamina and durability over multiple rounds, essential aspects before a world title bout.

Promoters’ plans amid the heavyweight landscape

Frank Warren has ambitious plans for both Itauma and Daniel Dubois, another rising British heavyweight. With Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk unlikely to fight again this year, the heavyweight division is ripe for new rivalries and fresh contenders to emerge.

This transitional phase offers an opportunity for fighters like Itauma and Joshua to capture fan interest and solidify their standing. A well-promoted fight between Joshua and Itauma could reignite British heavyweight boxing’s excitement and deliver a compelling domestic rivalry.

Conclusion: What’s next for Joshua and Itauma?

A fight between Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma remains a tantalising prospect for boxing enthusiasts. While Joshua’s camp is open to the idea if a world title is at stake, the consensus among experts is that Itauma should gain more experience before taking such a high-stakes leap.

For now, British fans can look forward to Itauma’s continued development and Joshua’s return to the ring, potentially in early 2026, as he eyes another shot at heavyweight glory. The heavyweight division is evolving, and the Joshua-Itauma storyline could soon become a defining chapter in UK boxing history.