Former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has called for a cautious approach to the career of Moses Itauma, despite the 21-year-old’s rapid climb into the division’s elite rankings. Speaking on June 4, 2026, Anthony Joshua acknowledged the immense potential of the undefeated southpaw but warned that the transition to world title fights brings a level of scrutiny that can overwhelm young athletes.
Moses Itauma currently holds an impressive professional record of 14-0 with 12 knockouts, having most recently stopped Jermaine Franklin via fifth-round TKO at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester on March 28, 2026.
This victory followed a series of dominant performances, including a first-round knockout of Dillian Whyte in Riyadh in August 2025 and a second-round TKO of Mike Balogun in Glasgow earlier that May. These results have seen him rise to No. 6 in The Ring’s rankings and secure top-five spots with all four major sanctioning bodies.
Anthony Joshua, who captured his first world title in his 16th fight at age 26, knows the weight of expectation firsthand. “Moses has that potential,” Anthony Joshua told The Ring’s Rick Reeno on the Mr. Verzace Podcast. He noted that while the young talent is “very promising,” rushing him could be detrimental.
“Once you cross over, there’s no turning back. You are marked, and not the one studying anymore. People are studying you, trust me.”
The psychological toll of championship boxing
The veteran heavyweight emphasized that championship boxing involves more than physical ability. He noted that Moses Itauma appears technically refined, using feints and counter shots earlier in his career than Anthony Joshua did himself. However, he warned that the mental pressure of having a “bullseye” on your back is a different challenge entirely.
According to Anthony Joshua, champions face intense scrutiny regarding their character and even their fashion choices. “People want your soul,” he said. He believes the boxing public needs to give the young prospect time to develop naturally before he faces the world’s most dangerous heavyweights. This advice comes as
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Moses Itauma’s professional journey began in January 2023 with a 23-second knockout of Marcel Bode. Since then, he has maintained a high knockout ratio of 86%, averaging just 2.2 rounds per fight. He is currently trained by Ben Davison, who took over from Alan Smith in early 2024.
Under Ben Davison, the Kent-based fighter has moved toward the top of the WBO and WBA rankings, where he currently sits at No. 1.
Moses Itauma recent fight history and rankings
The trajectory of Moses Itauma is supported by a flawless resume and high-level activity. Unlike many prospects who face limited opposition, Moses Itauma has been tested against experienced heavyweights. His ability to finish fights early has made him a fan favorite and a legitimate threat to the established order.
- March 2026: TKO 5 vs. Jermaine Franklin (Manchester)
- August 2025: KO 1 vs. Dillian Whyte (Riyadh)
- May 2025: TKO 2 vs. Mike Balogun (Glasgow)
- December 2024: TKO 1 vs. Demsey McKean (Riyadh)
This consistent activity has earned him the No. 1 spot in both the WBO and WBA. He is also ranked No. 3 by the WBC and No. 5 by the IBF.
While some suggest he is ready for an immediate title shot, Anthony Joshua insists that the current rankings are only part of the story, as managing the “soul-searching” pressure of the heavyweight crown is the true test of a champion.
Anthony Joshua future plans and retirement target
At age 36, Anthony Joshua is focused on his own path but remains keenly aware of the rising stars. He has scheduled his next fight, titled “The Comeback,” against Kristian Prenga on July 25, 2026. The bout will take place at the Jeddah Superdome in Saudi Arabia and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN pay-per-view.
This fight serves as a precursor to a planned showdown with Tyson Fury later this year.
Anthony Joshua has confirmed he intends to continue his career until he reaches age 40. During this four-year window, he has expressed interest in fighting a “hit list” of opponents. This list includes Tyson Fury, Daniel Dubois, Deontay Wilder, and Agit Kabayel. Interestingly, the veteran also named Moses Itauma as a potential future opponent once the youngster has gained more experience.
“Another opportunity. Will I? Of course,” Anthony Joshua said regarding a potential clash with Moses Itauma. He emphasized that the heavyweight division is currently full of great opportunities. By acknowledging Moses Itauma as a future rival, Anthony Joshua has essentially validated the prospect’s status as a champion-in-waiting while still maintaining his stance on patience.
Navigating the heavyweight title path in 2026
The heavyweight landscape is currently shifting as veterans like Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury navigate the final stages of their careers. While warm-up fights and negotiations continue to set the stage for undisputed clashes, Moses Itauma remains a mandatory challenger in waiting. His promoter, Queensberry Promotions, is reportedly looking at an August return for the southpaw.
Filip Hrgovic has been mentioned as a possible opponent for Moses Itauma’s next outing. Such a fight would provide the “time to develop” that Anthony Joshua advocates for, without stalling the prospect’s momentum. Facing a seasoned contender like Filip Hrgovic would allow Moses Itauma to experience longer fights, moving past his current average of 2.2 rounds.
Moses Itauma’s ascent is one of the most significant stories in British boxing. Whether he decides to force a world title shot or follows the veteran’s advice to wait will likely be decided in the coming months. For Anthony Joshua, the goal is clear: ensure the next generation is mentally prepared for the burden of the crown before they are forced to wear it.
