Moses Itauma vs Jermaine Franklin Headlines Queensberry's Jan. 24 Card
The Ring's 2024 Prospect of the Year, Moses Itauma, will start his 2026 campaign against Jermaine Franklin at Manchester's Co-Op Live Arena. This fight will headline the latest Magnificent Seven event promoted by Queensberry on January 24.
Jermaine Franklin's Experience
Jermaine Franklin (24-2, 15 KOs) is familiar to British boxing fans. He notably went the full 12 rounds in spirited losses to former Itoama opponent Dillian Whyte and to two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua during a five-month span from November 2022 to April 2023.
Moses Itauma's Status and Scheduling Changes
Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs) is the WBA’s No. 1-ranked contender. He was initially scheduled to headline on December 13 alongside popular veteran Derek Chisora in separate fights. However, those plans shifted after Kubrat Pulev chose to fight Murat Gassiev, which conflicted with the sanctioning body’s recent negotiation directives involving the 20-year-old Itauma.
"Moses Itauma will headline another Queensberry bill, when he faces Jermaine Franklin in the main event of their latest Magnificent Seven show."
"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."
Event Details
- Date: January 24, 2026
- Location: Manchester's Co-Op Live Arena
- Main Event: Moses Itauma vs Jermaine Franklin
This high-profile bout signals an important step for Itauma as he aims to solidify his position among heavyweight contenders.
Author’s summary: Moses Itauma’s 2026 campaign kicks off with a headline fight against experienced Jermaine Franklin in Manchester, marking a critical milestone in his rising heavyweight career.