Moses Itauma is setting his sights on capturing a heavyweight world championship as quickly as possible, according to his coach Ben Davison. The young contender has already accelerated his ascent through the ranks, delivering emphatic victories over seasoned opponents. In his most recent outings, Itauma stopped former title challenger Dillian Whyte in a single round and then dismantled Jermaine Franklin within five rounds, showcasing a blend of power and precision that has left his camp convinced he belongs among the division’s elite. For the trainer and the broader team surrounding Itauma, these performances are more than just impressive knock‑outs; they are a clear signal that the fighter is ready to test himself at the pinnacle of heavyweight boxing.
"Our objective now is to line up a world‑title fight for Moses as soon as we can," Davison told Sky Sports. "I’m not in a position to dictate the promotional details—those are handled by Queensberry Promotions, Frank Warren, and George Warren—but the ambition is unmistakable." The urgency behind the plan is palpable. Davison explained that Itauma wants to become a world champion before he turns 22, a timeline that would place the title bid before the close of the current calendar year. "He’s in a very favourable spot with several sanctioning bodies," Davison added.
"It could come down to a champion vacating a belt or an opponent stepping aside, but the opportunity is there." Although Itauma is still in the early stages of his professional career—having logged just 14 fights, with 12 of those victories coming before the final bell—his rapid progression has sparked a debate about risk versus reward when it comes to matchmaking. "Experience will accumulate as he continues to fight," Davison said. "We’ve tested him against opponents who could survive the distance, and we’ve seen enough in the gym and in the ring to know that he can handle the step up. If a challenger can’t go the rounds, then the decision is straightforward." The trainer did not shy away from the possibility of a title showdown against Agit Kabayel for the WBC heavyweight crown.
"If a world title is on the line, we’re all in," Davison affirmed, emphasizing that the risk‑reward calculus now favours a bold move toward a championship bout. Complicating the picture is the fact that Itauma could be positioned as the mandatory challenger for the WBO heavyweight belt, currently held by his gymmate Fabio Wardley. Wardley is slated to face Daniel Dubois on May 9, and should he emerge victorious, the landscape could shift dramatically.
Davison believes that even if Wardley retains his title, a unification fight with Oleksandr Usyk would likely take precedence, potentially prompting Wardley to vacate the WBO belt in favour of a higher‑profile clash. "If the WBO were to enforce a mandatory defence, it’s probable that Fabio would relinquish the belt to pursue the Usyk fight," Davison explained. "A unification bout would supersede any mandatory obligation, so I don’t see that becoming a stumbling block for Moses." In summary, Moses Itauma’s trajectory is defined by a combination of raw power, strategic matchmaking, and an unwavering desire to claim a world title before his 22nd birthday. With two dominant stoppages already under his belt and a supportive training team that believes he’s ready for the biggest stage, the next few months could see the young heavyweight stepping into a championship ring far sooner than many had anticipated.
The convergence of his own ambition, the willingness of promoters, and the fluid dynamics of heavyweight sanctioning bodies sets the stage for what could become a landmark moment in Itauma’s burgeoning career.