Moses Itauma Ranked No.1 Heavyweight by WBA, WBO Boosts Title Shot

Moses Itauma, a 20-year-old British heavyweight prospect, has risen to the number one contender spot in the WBA rankings, joining his existing top position in the WBO, while also holding high placements in the IBF and WBC rankings. His recent first-round knockout victory over former title challenger Dillian Whyte has boosted his standing, and he is now considered a strong candidate for a future world title shot against undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk. While Itauma's camp is keen to build his experience with potential fights against contenders like Kubrat Pulev, Joseph Parker, or Filip Hrgovic, there is significant interest from boxing officials and promoters to arrange a bout with Usyk, possibly in 2026. Former champions such as George Groves and Roy Jones Jr. have praised Itauma's power and potential, even comparing him to Mike Tyson for his knockout ability and quick rise. Despite WBA's complex championship structure—with Pulev holding the 'regular' title and Fabio Wardley the interim belt—Itauma's dual top rankings in major sanctioning bodies put him in a strong position to challenge for undisputed heavyweight gold in the near future. However, his team prefers a gradual build-up, emphasizing gaining more ring experience before facing Usyk, amid ongoing negotiations and mandatory defenses involving the current champion.