Nelson says Itauma needs more experience before facing Usyk
Johnny Nelson has expressed doubts about whether rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma is ready to take on Oleksandr Usyk. The former cruiserweight champion praised Itauma's potential but believes he still has much to learn. Itauma's fight against Jermaine Franklin has been postponed, but his name continues to be linked with major bouts. Frank Warren thinks a world title shot could be on the horizon if Itauma keeps winning.
Match highlights
- Johnny Nelson said Moses Itauma is not yet ready to face Oleksandr Usyk.
- Itauma's scheduled fight against Jermaine Franklin has been postponed from this weekend to March.
- Itauma has won all 13 professional fights, with 11 knockouts, including a one-round win over Dillian Whyte in August 2025 to claim the Commonwealth heavyweight title.
- His promoter Frank Warren believes Itauma could fight for a world title in 2026 if he beats Franklin on March 28 in Manchester.
- Nelson thinks Usyk is too clever for Itauma at this stage but advises not to write the young boxer off.
