Moses Itauma to Headline Queensberry's Jan. 24 Magnificent 7 Card
Moses Itauma, The Ring's 2024 Prospect of the Year, is set to begin his 2026 campaign against American contender Jermaine Franklin at Manchester's Co-Op Live Arena on January 24. This clash will headline the latest Queensberry Magnificent Seven event.
Jermaine Franklin's Background
Franklin (24-2, 15 KOs) is a familiar figure to British boxing fans. He endured tough 12-round bouts in recent years, including spirited losses to former Itauma challenger Dillian Whyte and two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua from November 2022 to April 2023.
Moses Itauma's Status and Changes
Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs), ranked No. 1 contender by the WBA, was originally scheduled to headline a December 13 card alongside Derek Chisora. However, plans changed after Kubrat Pulev chose to face Murat Gassiev, disrupting the sanctioning body's prior mandate to negotiate with the 20-year-old Itauma.
"Itauma will headline another Queensberry bill, when he faces Jermaine Franklin in the main event of their latest Magnificent Seven show at Manchester's Co-Op Live Arena on January 24."
"Franklin is well-known to British audiences, having gone the 12-round distance in spirited defeats against former Itauma opponent Dillian Whyte and two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua."
This upcoming bout marks an important step for Itauma as he defends his rising status against a seasoned and battle-tested opponent.
Author's summary: Moses Itauma, WBA’s top contender and 2024 Prospect of the Year, will face experienced Jermaine Franklin on January 24 in Manchester, following a rescheduled bout due to boxing negotiations.