Itauma’s Return Lined Up For December – The Options Available

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 4:35 AM ET

Moses Itauma will box in December, as his hitlist has been outlined by Frank Warren.

Itauma extended his undefeated record to 13-0, with 11 KOs to his name by stopping Dillian Whyte in his last bout. That was his ninth consecutive stoppage, as the attention turns towards his next fight. Itauma called out Oleksandr Usyk, whose team has suggested that Itauma has other options that are available. Joseph Parker, who has also been linked, is open to that fight. Warren has now listed the names who could share the ring with him: Jermain Franklin, Kubrat Pulev, and Filip Hrgovic.

“He will fight again in December, the world is his oyster. What’s next? Watch this space. If a big opportunity presents itself, we will grab it. If it is a fight that people may not see as a career-defining fight, then that is on us to decide what step we take. I like the Hrgovic fight, we will just have to see how his cut heals up,” Warren said

The Match-Ups

Franklin is a highly suitable opponent, given his proven durability. Franklin has shown he can absorb punches, as he has never been stopped. He has gone the distance with top-level heavyweights like Dillian Whyte and Anthony Joshua. Itauma’s team has expressed a desire for him to get more rounds under his belt, and a fight with a tough, resilient boxer like Franklin is the perfect way to do that.

Kubrat Pulev, at 44 years old, is at the tailend of his career. He has been in the ring with some of the best heavyweights of the past decade, including Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko. While he may be past his prime, Pulev is still a technically sound fighter with a solid jab and a wealth of experience. A fight against him would be a litmus test for Itauma, showing whether the young prospect can handle a seasoned professional with a high-level boxing IQ.

Filip Hrgovic is arguably the most dangerous choice. Hrgovic is a former Olympic bronze medalist and a top-ranked contender who is known for his aggressive style and heavy hands. Unlike Franklin and Pulev, Hrgovic is still in his prime and has a legitimate claim to a world title shot. Hrgovic secured a win over David Adeleye in his last fight, his second win on the spin after the Joe Joyce win. Either way, Itauma has plenty to consider.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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