This article provides an in-depth preview of the upcoming heavyweight boxing match between Moses Itauma and Jermaine Franklin, detailing the fighters' backgrounds, their recent performances, and the full schedule for the event. The bout marks Itauma's first appearance in 2026, facing a durable opponent in Franklin, who has never been knocked out. The event, taking place in Manchester, England, promises an exciting night for boxing enthusiasts, with streaming information and the complete fight card also outlined for fans eager to follow the action.
Moses Itauma, an undefeated prospect in the heavyweight division with a record of 13 wins and 11 knockouts, is making his highly anticipated return to the ring. His last fight saw him dominate Dillian Whyte, securing a victory in merely two minutes. This rapid ascent has positioned Itauma as a formidable force in boxing, with many eyes on his continued progress. His opponent, Jermaine Franklin, comes into this fight with a record of 24 wins and 2 losses, boasting 15 knockouts. Franklin is known for his remarkable durability, having gone the distance against top contenders like Whyte and Anthony Joshua without ever being stopped. His recent win against Ivan Dychko in September last year further solidifies his standing as a resilient and competitive fighter.
The main event between Itauma and Franklin is scheduled to headline a major boxing card in Manchester, England, at the Co-op Live arena. The main card action is set to commence at 1:00 PM ET, with preliminary bouts starting earlier at 11:00 AM ET. Fans can expect the main event ring walks to begin around 6:00 PM ET. The entire event will be available for streaming exclusively on DAZN, requiring a subscription to access the live broadcast. This setup ensures that boxing fans globally can tune in to witness what promises to be a compelling clash of styles between a rising star and a seasoned veteran.
Beyond the main event, the fight card is packed with several other intriguing matchups across various weight classes, featuring both established names and emerging talents. The undercard includes a lightweight contest between Michael Gomez Jr and Jordan Flynn, another lightweight bout featuring Alex Murphy against Josh Holmes, and a featherweight title fight for the vacant European title between Liam Davies and Francesco Grandelli. Additionally, middleweight fights include Shakiel Thompson vs. Brad Pauls and Nathan Heaney vs. Gerome Warburton, alongside a light heavyweight clash between Willy Hutchinson and Ezra Taylor. These fights contribute to a comprehensive night of boxing, offering diverse contests for all attendees and viewers.
The encounter between Itauma and Franklin is more than just another fight; it's a critical test for Itauma's promising career against an opponent who has proven difficult to defeat definitively. For Franklin, it's an opportunity to reassert his position among the division's elite and potentially derail the momentum of a highly touted prospect. This match-up is expected to be a strategic battle, where Itauma's power and aggression will meet Franklin's resilience and experience. The outcome will undoubtedly have significant implications for both fighters' trajectories in the competitive heavyweight landscape.
