Moses Itauma Fight Announcement For January 24th

In a morning that has sent shockwaves through the heavyweight division, Queensberry Promotions dropped a bombshell announcement: undefeated British sensation Moses Itauma will headline “The Magnificent 7” card against American powerhouse Jermaine Franklin on January 24, 2026, at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena. The reveal, timed perfectly for the early hours of November 10, comes courtesy of legendary promoter Frank Warren, who is marking his 45th year in the business with what he calls an “incredible” lineup designed to showcase the future of British boxing.

At just 20 years old, Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs) has been on a tear, dismantling opponents with ruthless efficiency. His most recent masterclass came in August 2025, when he obliterated former title challenger Dillian Whyte in a mere 60 seconds at Riyadh’s ANB Arena—a performance that solidified his status as the WBA and WBO’s top heavyweight contender. But with opponents scarce due to his devastating knockout power, Itauma has spent much of 2025 in waiting mode, logging just three rounds of professional action this year. That drought ends now, and in style.

Stepping into the ring against him is Jermaine “The House Generator” Franklin (23-3-1, 15 KOs), a 31-year-old Detroit native who knows a thing or two about facing British heavyweights. Franklin pushed Anthony Joshua the distance in a gritty unanimous decision loss in 2023, showcasing the kind of durability and heart that could finally give Itauma the rounds he needs to build stamina. Since that setback, Franklin has rattled off three straight wins, including stoppages over journeymen, positioning himself as a credible gatekeeper with upside. “This is a perfect test,” Warren enthused in the official statement. “Moses is our heavyweight prodigy, and Jermaine is a very tough American. This card does justice to my 45 years in the game.”

The “Magnificent 7” moniker isn’t just hype—it’s a nod to Warren’s storied career and a promise of stacked action. While full undercard details are still trickling in, early reports suggest a feast of Queensberry talent, including potential appearances from cruiserweight contenders like Chris Billam-Smith and flyweight phenom Galal Yafai. Heavyweight prospects like Johnny Fisher, who recently called out Itauma himself, could feature in a co-main event slot, adding domestic fireworks to the mix. Expect announcements on streaming via DAZN PPV to follow suit, making this a must-watch for UK fight fans.

For Itauma, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A shelved WBA regular title shot against Kubrat Pulev—derailed when Pulev was matched with Murat Gassiev instead—left the young star itching for action. Rumors had swirled of a December 13 return in Manchester, but the January pivot allows for a proper camp under trainer Ben Davison. “I’m ready to show the world why I’m the future,” Itauma posted on social media shortly after the news broke, fueling speculation of a world title bid in late 2026. With Oleksandr Usyk’s reign showing cracks, Itauma’s window is widening.

Franklin, meanwhile, sees this as redemption. After losses to Fabio Wardley and Jake Paul dented his momentum, a win over Itauma could catapult him back into the elite conversation. “I’ve been in the trenches with the best,” Franklin said via Instagram. “Time to generate some power in Manchester.”

As tickets go on sale later this week, the boxing world buzzes with anticipation. “The Magnificent 7” isn’t just a card—it’s a coronation for Itauma and a milestone for Warren. In the unpredictable heavyweight jungle, this January showdown could redefine trajectories. One thing’s certain: after this morning’s announcement, all eyes are on Manchester.