WBC Pulls the Trigger
The World Boxing Council (WBC) has made a significant move in the heavyweight division, ordering the #1-ranked Lawrence Okolie and the #4-ranked Moses Itauma to face each other in a final eliminator. The winner of this bout will become the mandatory challenger for the current heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk. This decision was announced during the WBC’s annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand, on December 3rd. The stakes are high, and both fighters are expected to secure victories in their upcoming bouts before facing off. Okolie, with a record of 22-1 and 16 knockouts, is set to fight in Nigeria on December 19th, while Itauma, boasting an impressive 13-0 record with 11 knockouts, will take on Jermaine Franklin on January 24, 2026, in Manchester, England.
Setting the Stage for a Heavyweight Showdown
The potential fight between Okolie and Itauma is a significant milestone for the heavyweight division. Both fighters are promoted by Queensberry, which makes the match easier to orchestrate without involving another promoter. Okolie, a former cruiserweight champion, has shown remarkable progress in the heavyweight category, and Itauma, a rising star, has already proven his mettle with his powerful performances. The winner of this eliminator will earn a coveted spot to challenge Oleksandr Usyk, who has been dominating the division with his strategic and technical prowess. For Queensberry, this is a golden opportunity to showcase their top talent and set the stage for a blockbuster championship bout.
Will Usyk Vacate Again?
The question of whether Oleksandr Usyk will vacate the WBC belt looms large. The 38-year-old champion, who has already relinquished his WBO belt to avoid a mandatory defense against Fabio Wardley, might take a similar route if faced with the prospect of defending against the winner of the Okolie-Itauma eliminator. Usyk’s career is nearing its twilight, and he seems more interested in high-profile, lucrative fights rather than mandatory obligations. If he chooses to vacate the WBC belt, the winner of the eliminator could be elevated to full champion status, adding another exciting chapter to the heavyweight division’s narrative.
Okolie’s Upcoming Test
Lawrence Okolie’s next bout on December 19th in Nigeria is expected to be a formality. His opponent has yet to be determined, but Okolie is not anticipated to face a serious threat. Okolie’s journey from cruiserweight to heavyweight has been remarkable, and a win in Nigeria will solidify his position as a top contender. His resilience and adaptability have been key to his success, and a victory in this bout will keep him on track for the high-stakes eliminator against Itauma. Okolie’s fans can look forward to another dominant performance as he aims to position himself for a shot at the heavyweight title.
Itauma’s Franklin Warm-Up
Moses Itauma’s bout against Jermaine Franklin on January 24th at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, England, is a more significant test. While Franklin, with a record of 24-2 and 15 knockouts, is a seasoned veteran, Itauma is the clear favorite. This fight will serve as a warm-up for Itauma as he prepares for the eliminator against Okolie. Itauma’s last fight against Dillian Whyte was a mismatch, and Franklin, though younger and more competitive than Whyte, is still expected to pose little threat. Nevertheless, Itauma will need to stay focused and sharp to maintain his unbeaten record and keep his momentum going into the more significant bout.
A Bright Future for the Heavyweight Division
The heavyweight division is poised for an exciting period, with the Okolie-Itauma eliminator setting the stage for a potential title showdown with Oleksandr Usyk. Both fighters bring unique skills and styles to the ring, and their confrontation promises to be a thrilling spectacle. For boxing fans, this development is a welcome sign of the sport’s continued evolution and the emergence of new talent. Whether Usyk decides to defend his title or vacate it, the winner of the Okolie-Itauma eliminator will have earned their place in the heavyweight elite, ready to take on the challenges of the division. The future of heavyweight boxing looks bright, and the boxing world will be watching closely as these events unfold.
