Rising heavyweight contender Moses Itauma will return to the ring at the start of 2026. Although he had hoped to fight before the end of 2025, his next bout is officially set for January 24 at the Co-Op Live arena in Manchester, facing Jermaine Franklin, according to ESPN.
Franklin (24-2, 15 KOs) has secured three consecutive wins against lower-ranked opponents since a clear unanimous decision loss to Anthony Joshua in 2023.
"This show will also effectively celebrate my 45th year in the professional business and I believe this card certainly does justice to the occasion and I am very happy to have our heavyweight prodigy Moses topping the bill in another perfect test of his unquestionable credentials against a very tough American in Jermaine Franklin," said promoter Frank Warren.
The event will also feature a light heavyweight bout between Willy Hutchinson (19-2, 14 KOs) and Ezra Taylor (13-0, 9 KOs).
This fight card promises strong competition and highlights both established and emerging talents in heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.
Author's summary: Moses Itauma will face Jermaine Franklin in a major heavyweight clash on January 24, 2026, marking a key step in his rapid rise within the professional ranks.