Moses Itauma Return Expected in December: Who Will He Fight?

The heavyweight boxing scene is heating up once again, and one of the division’s most exciting young prospects, Moses Itauma, is preparing for a highly anticipated return in December 2025. With an unbeaten record of 13-0 (11 KOs), the 19-year-old prodigy has already established himself as one of the brightest rising stars in world boxing. His blend of size, speed, and devastating power has turned heads across the sport, and his next opponent could play a pivotal role in shaping his path toward a future world title shot.

So, who will Moses Itauma face when he steps back into the ring this December? Let’s take a closer look at his possible options, the politics of the heavyweight division, and what fans can realistically expect.

The Road So Far for Moses Itauma

Before we explore potential matchups, it’s important to understand how Itauma has built his reputation so quickly. Dubbed the “future of heavyweight boxing,” Itauma stormed onto the professional scene in early 2023 after an impressive amateur career. His combination of footwork, ring IQ, and knockout power made him a force to be reckoned with, even at such a young age.

In his last few outings, Itauma has showcased both raw aggression and technical control. Whether dismantling journeymen in quick fashion or displaying patience against tougher opposition, he has proved adaptable — a key trait for success at the highest level. With his December return, the stakes will be higher, and the competition tougher.

The Joseph Parker Possibility

There had been whispers of a potential clash between Moses Itauma and Joseph Parker, especially if the WBO world title situation shifts later this year. Parker currently holds the WBO interim heavyweight belt and has been on a strong run, including wins over Deontay Wilder and Martin Bakole.

Some speculated that Itauma might step into a world title fight should Parker be elevated to full champion status or if the belt became vacant. However, Parker seems locked into a blockbuster showdown with Fabio Wardley on October 25 at London’s O2 Arena. That fight is likely to decide Parker’s trajectory heading into 2026, meaning Itauma will have to wait for his own crack at world title contention.

While the Parker fight may be unlikely for December, it remains a possibility for 2026 if Itauma keeps winning and the belts shift hands in his favor.

Jermaine Franklin: A Serious Candidate

Another realistic name in the mix is Jermaine Franklin (23-2, 15 KOs). The American heavyweight is familiar to UK fans thanks to his spirited but unsuccessful outings against Dillian Whyte and Anthony Joshua in 2022 and 2023. Despite those losses, Franklin proved durable and competitive, cementing himself as a respectable contender.

Franklin is scheduled to face Ivan Dychko (15-0, 14 KOs) on the Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford undercard on September 13. The outcome of that fight could heavily influence his availability for Itauma.

• If Franklin wins, he brings strong momentum and name recognition into a December showdown.

• If Dychko wins, the Kazakh fighter could also emerge as a fresh option, though his age (35) and relatively untested record may not make him as attractive as Franklin.

For Itauma, a fight with Franklin makes a lot of sense: it would be a step up against a proven, durable opponent who has shared the ring with top names.

Martin Bakole: A Dangerous Test

One of the more intriguing options is Martin Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs). Known for his physical strength and relentless pressure, Bakole recently fought Efe Ajagba to a draw in May — a bout that many thought might deserve a rematch. However, with that rematch unlikely, Bakole could be a prime candidate to face Itauma.

Bakole’s size and experience would present Itauma with his toughest professional challenge yet. While Itauma has shown composure in the ring, Bakole would test his stamina, durability, and ability to handle pressure over multiple rounds.

For fans, this would be a true crossroads fight — the young lion against the seasoned contender. For Itauma’s team, though, it might be seen as too risky too soon, depending on their long-term strategy.

Other Potential Opponents

While Franklin and Bakole stand out as the most likely names, there are a few other possibilities worth mentioning:

• Derek Chisora – The British veteran is always in the conversation for a big fight, though his recent form suggests he may no longer be the right test for a rising prospect like Itauma.

• Daniel Dubois – Another young British heavyweight, Dubois has been rebuilding since his loss to Oleksandr Usyk. A clash with Itauma would be explosive but might be saved for later when both men are closer to world title contention.

• Efe Ajagba – After his draw with Bakole, Ajagba remains a viable opponent, especially if the politics of the heavyweight division don’t open bigger doors for Itauma.

The Bigger Picture: Usyk, Parker, and the Heavyweight Titles

At the top of the division, Oleksandr Usyk continues to hold all the major heavyweight belts. However, his recent injury and uncertainty about defending titles could create opportunities for fighters like Parker, Wardley, and ultimately Itauma.

If Usyk vacates the WBO title, the sanctioning body could elevate Parker to full champion, leaving a vacant interim slot or even ordering mandatory challengers. In that scenario, Itauma could find himself in a position to fight for a belt sooner than expected.

For now, though, December is about staying active, building experience, and preparing for the moment when the world title doors finally open.

What Makes Itauma Special?

Part of the reason fans are so excited about Moses Itauma’s career is the sense that he represents the future of heavyweight boxing. At just 19 years old, he already possesses:

• Elite amateur pedigree – a background that has given him polished fundamentals.

• Knockout power – 11 of his 13 wins have come by stoppage.

• Composure under pressure – even against durable opponents, he has shown patience and control.

• Star quality – his confidence and charisma outside the ring are helping build a fan base.

His December fight is more than just another outing — it’s a test of whether he’s ready to make the leap from prospect to genuine contender.

Prediction: Who Will Itauma Fight in December?

Given the current boxing landscape, the most realistic scenario appears to be Jermaine Franklin — provided Franklin comes through his September fight successfully. It’s a matchup that offers credibility, experience, and the chance for Itauma to prove himself against a durable opponent who has shared the ring with world-class fighters.

If Franklin loses, then Martin Bakole could emerge as the frontrunner. While riskier, it would be a true statement fight for Itauma and catapult him into the top tier of heavyweight contenders.

Final Thoughts

The return of Moses Itauma in December 2025 is one of the most anticipated events on the boxing calendar. Fans are eager to see if the young powerhouse can continue his rise and edge closer to a world title shot. Whether it’s Jermaine Franklin, Martin Bakole, or another heavyweight contender, one thing is certain: Itauma’s journey is entering a pivotal stage.

As the heavyweight division continues to shift with fighters like Oleksandr Usyk, Joseph Parker, Fabio Wardley, and Daniel Dubois shaping the title picture, Itauma is positioning himself perfectly for a breakout 2026. For now, all eyes are on December — and the question remains: who will dare to face the future of heavyweight boxing?