Why Moses Itauma targets Anthony Joshua
Itauma Calls for Joshua Fight After Statement Win
Fresh off his stoppage win over Jermaine Franklin, Moses Itauma has openly welcomed a fight with Anthony Joshua, according to boxingnews.com.
Itauma made a strong statement in Manchester’s Co-op Live arena last weekend. He became the first fighter to stop the durable Franklin, securing a fifth-round knockout.
When asked about a potential clash with the former two-time champion, Itauma gave a direct response:
“If that’s a fight to make, that’s a fight to make.”
Momentum Builds for a Breakthrough Opportunity
By stopping a fighter who went the distance with both Joshua and Dillian Whyte, Itauma has strengthened his case for a shot at the elite level.
He now stands at 14-0, with 12 knockouts, and continues his push to become the youngest British heavyweight champion in history.
However, Joshua’s 2026 has been shaped by personal tragedy. A fatal car crash earlier this year claimed the lives of close friends, delaying his return to training camp.
Promoter Eddie Hearn now targets a late summer return, likely in July or August, for the 36-year-old.
Heavyweight Landscape: Multiple Paths Ahead
Despite years of failed negotiations, a showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua remains a top priority. Fury is scheduled to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11, while Joshua is still searching for his next opponent.
Meanwhile, promoter Frank Warren continues to praise Itauma, calling him the best heavyweight he has worked with.
Warren remains open to matching Itauma with Joshua, but he is also mapping a direct route to a world title shot against Oleksandr Usyk later this year.
Tactical Breakdown: Itauma’s Approach
A potential fight would center on the classic southpaw vs. orthodox dynamic.
Itauma would aim to position his lead foot outside Joshua’s. This would open angles for his straight left hand and allow him to control exchanges early.
He would likely apply pressure from the start, forcing Joshua into a defensive shell—similar to what he achieved in the third round against Franklin.
Itauma also uses level-changing feints to the body. These feints often draw an opponent’s guard downward, creating openings upstairs. If Joshua reacts too heavily to body attacks, Itauma could exploit that with sharp head-body-head combinations.
Joshua’s Keys to Victory
Joshua must reassert control at long range. His reach and experience remain major advantages.
As Itauma tries to close distance, Joshua needs to intercept him with precise counters. The check hook and straight right hand will be crucial tools.
He used a similar right hand effectively against Francis Ngannou, and he could rely on that same weapon again.
If Joshua maintains distance and timing, he can disrupt Itauma’s rhythm and dictate the pace of the fight.
