Overview

• Promoter Frank Warren says Itauma is pencilled to headline in Manchester on December 13 against a ‘top‑10’ heavyweight, with the opponent still to be confirmed.
• Potential opponents under discussion include Filip Hrgovic, Jermaine Franklin and Martin Bakole, while Joseph Parker is expected to face Fabio Wardley on October 25.
• Hrgovic’s availability is uncertain due to a cut suffered in August, and Franklin first boxes Ivan Dychko on September 13, which could influence matchmaking.
• Lennox Lewis advises Itauma to wait before targeting Oleksandr Usyk, and reporting notes Usyk has been ordered to face Joseph Parker before any new title scenario.
• Eddie Hearn says Anthony Joshua would consider Itauma only if a world title were on the line, while urging the 20‑year‑old—who stopped Dillian Whyte in one round in August and is reported No.1 with the WBO and WBA—to build against more durable foes first.