British rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma will return to action on January 24, 2025, topping Frank Warren’s “Magnificent Seven” boxing card at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena.
The 20-year-old prodigy will face seasoned American contender Jermaine Franklin, a fighter who went the distance with both Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte. For Itauma, the showdown represents a golden chance to do what Joshua couldn’t: stop durable Franklin inside the distance.
Franklin’s Tough Resume Sets the Stage for a True Test
Now age 32, Jermaine Franklin has established himself as one of boxing’s strongest gatekeepers. In late 2022, Franklin went the distance with Dillian Whyte in a super close contest, and in April, Franklin dropped a well-contested unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua.
Though he lost both bouts, Franklin’s durability was well evident neither heavyweight was able to drop or stop him.
Since then, the Michigan-based fighter has bounced back impressively, racking up three consecutive wins, earning himself another major opportunity against one of the division’s most talked-about prospects in Moses Itauma.
Moses Itauma’s Knockout Streak Continues
Still just 20 years of age, Moses Itauma has quickly built a reputation as one of the brightest young talents in world boxing. The big-punching southpaw remained undefeated in 2024, showing off his devastating knockout power.
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His explosive second-round TKO win over Mike Balogun in May was followed by a first-round destruction of Dillian Whyte in Riyadh three months later, victories that consolidated his reputation as the next big thing in British heavyweight boxing.
Although expected to fight again on December 13, Itauma’s camp decided on a longer camp, setting up the Franklin bout six weeks later to maximize preparation and exposure.
Stacked Undercard for Magnificent Seven Event
The undercard on January 24 promises plenty of action, with several high-profile domestic matchups. Willy Hutchinson vs Ezra Taylor – The light-heavyweights finally settle their rivalry after a heated exchange during the Joshua Buatsi vs Zach Parker event.
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Liam Davies vs Zak Miller
Davies continues his featherweight campaign against the reigning British and Commonwealth champion. Shakiel Thompson vs Brad Pauls An undefeated middleweight meets a former British champion in what is a must-see fight.
Nathan Heaney vs. Gerome Warburton: It’s a fight that means everything for the next step in Heaney’s career at middleweight.
Aqib Fiaz vs. Jordan Flynn – Lightweight prospect Fiaz faces one of his toughest tests yet. Alex Murphy vs Josh Holmes: An exciting bout with the English super-featherweight title hanging in the balance.
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