Moses Itauma stands a chance at securing his first world title fight, provided he defeats Dillian Whyte. Contrary to expectations, this fight doesn't seem to be against Oleksandr Usyk.
On August 16, the highly-anticipated fight between Moses Itauma and Dillian Whyte will be available to watch on DAZN, marking a significant step-up in Itauma's career.
Itauma, who has an undefeated record of 12-0 and turned professional in 2023, is currently ranked as the WBO's number one heavyweight. This fight against Whyte, who has previously lost to Joseph Parker, Joe Joyce, and Anthony Joshua, could help convince any doubters of Itauma's potential as a star in the heavyweight division.
In the WBO's current top 10 heavyweight rankings, Itauma is followed by Filip Hrgovic, Zhilei Zhang, Lawrence Okolie, Daniel Dubois, Jared Anderson, Anthony Joshua, Derek Chisora, David Adeleye, and Nelson Hysa.
Meanwhile, Joseph Parker, the New Zealand-born heavyweight, has recently won against Martin Bakole. Parker currently holds the WBO interim world championship and would likely be upgraded to the full WBO heavyweight title holder if Oleksandr Usyk vacates the title. Usyk, the current world champion, may vacate his title if he does not agree to defend it against Parker by August 24.
If Usyk does indeed vacate the title, a fight between Itauma and Parker for the full WBO heavyweight title becomes highly likely. However, negotiations and financial viability will be key factors in determining when or if this fight happens.
Eddie Hearn, promoter of Itauma, mentioned that while fans voted for Parker as Itauma's next opponent, a fight with Filip Hrgovic also makes sense, though Hrgovic recently suffered a cut. The status and willingness of Oleksandr Usyk to fight also affect the situation.
In summary, if Moses Itauma beats Dillian Whyte, a fight between Itauma and Joseph Parker is on track, but it depends largely on the WBO heavyweight title situation and financial viability. If Usyk vacates the title, Parker would likely face Itauma for the vacant full WBO heavyweight title. The WBO's current top heavyweights include Itauma (#1), Parker (interim champ), and others like Hrgovic, Bakole, Zhang, and Deontay Wilder.
