In a recent turn of events, the International Boxing Association (IBA) president, Albert Siesta, has publicly criticized Moses Itauma’s team for their apparent reluctance to engage in discussions about a potential bout with the newly crowned WBA ‘regular’ heavyweight champion, Murat Gassiev. Gassiev’s impressive sixth-round knockout victory over Kubrat Pulev in Dubai last month has set the stage for a highly anticipated matchup with Itauma, as mandated by the WBA.
However, since Gassiev’s triumph, Itauma’s camp has been conspicuously silent, prompting Siesta to voice his concerns. “There was a clear directive from the WBA for Moses Itauma to face the victor of the Pulev vs. Gassiev match,” Siesta stated. “Yet, despite the initial enthusiasm from Queensberry Promotions, all communication seems to have ceased following Gassiev’s dominant performance.”
Adding to the intrigue, there are rumors circulating about a potential clash between Itauma and fellow Nigerian, Lawrence Okolie. Okolie, who has been ordered by the WBC to face Itauma in a final eliminator for the belt currently held by Oleksandr Usyk, expressed his excitement about the prospect. “Two Nigerians squaring off in the ring—it’s going to be electrifying,” Okolie remarked. “I wish Moses Itauma the best of luck in his upcoming fight against Franklin, and then we can focus on our mandated bout for the world title eliminator.”
Siesta, however, remains skeptical about Itauma’s team’s intentions. He believes their silence is a strategic move, influenced by the outcome of the Pulev vs. Gassiev fight. “In my opinion, this is no coincidence,” Siesta asserted. “They would have eagerly pursued a fight with a 44-year-old Kubrat Pulev, but facing a prime, heavy-hitting champion like Murat Gassiev is a different story. I understand the game, and I can see why Frank Warren might be hesitant to put his ‘Golden Boy’ in the ring with Murat. We take it as a compliment!”
Itauma, who last fought in August with a stunning first-round knockout of Dillian Whyte in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is scheduled to return to the ring in a few weeks. He will face the experienced Jermaine Franklin at the AO Arena in Manchester, marking his first headline appearance in the UK. Franklin, who has gone the distance with both Dillian Whyte and two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua, is expected to provide a tough test for the 20-year-old prospect.
The boxing world eagerly awaits further developments in this unfolding saga, as fans and analysts alike speculate on the future of Moses Itauma and the potential showdown with Murat Gassiev.
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