British-Nigerian heavyweight Moses Itauma will have to wait for his shot at the WBA ‘regular’ heavyweight title, after champion Kubrat Pulev agreed to defend his belt against Murat Gassiev on December 12 in Dubai.
The 44-year-old Bulgarian had initially been ordered to face Itauma but was granted permission by the WBA to make a voluntary defence against the former cruiserweight world champion.
Pulev’s promoter, Ivaylo Gotzev, confirmed the development, saying:
“The Pulev vs Gassiev fight is signed, sealed, and confirmed – so (Moses) Itauma will have to wait his turn. We have an official WBA resolution authorising Kubrat Pulev’s first title defence to be a voluntary, and in line with that, we’ve locked in a terrific opponent in Murat Gassiev.”
Itauma, 20, remains unbeaten in 13 professional fights, with 11 knockouts, and most recently stopped Dillian Whyte inside two minutes in August.
While the WBA’s decision delays his title hopes, Gotzev revealed that Pulev’s camp has offered Itauma a spot on the Dubai undercard, potentially setting up a future showdown with the winner.
“We understand young Itauma is chomping at the bit,” Gotzev added. “As a professional courtesy, I’ve spoken directly with his promoter, George Warren, to offer him a slot on the undercard.”
Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk currently holds the WBA ‘super’ title, along with the rest of the major heavyweight belts, as the undisputed world champion.
About the Author
