WBO clarifies, no shot for Moses Itauma next

WBO President Gustavo Olivieri has moved to clear up confusion surrounding the status of heavyweight Moses Itauma.

After praising Itauma on Saturday, following the big-hitting Brits’ demolition of Mike Balogun, some thought the 20-year-old was next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk.

Olivieri said, “Moses Itauma has climbed the WBO rankings with talent, discipline, and electrifying performances. Now the number one world-rated heavyweight contender, his moment is approaching.

“It’s only a matter of time before he gets his shot & the world sees a new star emerge.”

Asked if that means Itauma overtakes the interim champion Joseph Parker in the pecking order, Olivieri responded, “Not necessarily. Now, to become mandatory, a fighter must face rated opposition.

“In Itauma’s case, last month he occupied the #2 spot & having #1 Justis Huni committed to fight an interim WBA title, he is excluded and Itauma moves by default to the number one spot.”

For the record: While Moses Itauma holds the WBO’s #1 world ranking in the Heavyweight Division, this alone does NOT confer Mandatory status. That designation requires defeating top-rated contender(s). Joe Parker remains the official Mandatory & retains priority, per WBO Rules.

— Gustavo Olivieri, Esq. (@OlivieriLaw) May 25, 2025

A small spell of further debate urged Olivieri to make a full clarification on Itauma’s current standing.

“For the record, while Moses Itauma holds the WBO’s number one world ranking in the heavyweight division, this alone does not confer Mandatory status.

“That designation requires defeating top-rated contender(s). Joe Parker remains the official mandatory challenger and retains priority, per WBO Rules.”

On why the scheduled next opponent for Usyk, Agit Kabayel, is not rated, Olivieri concluded, “Kabayel holds an interim title from another organization. Therefore, he’s a recognized champion and not rated.”

Itauma is probably at least eighteen months away from challenging for the top division crown at this point. There will be a debate to follow Usyk’s fight with Daniel Dubois on July 19 at Wembley Stadium.

After taking less than two rounds to dispatch American Balogun, promoter Frank Warren is lining Itauma up for a place on the undercard.

However, the winner of Usyk vs Dubois will face either Kabayel or Parker, depending on whether the WBC or WBO wins the argument.

If Usyk retains and decides to relinquish some belts, Itauma could get his chance against Parker. The likelihood is that Usyk will continue for another year and give Parker his opportunity for the world title next, undisputed or not.

The fight could happen in the usual pre-Christmas slot in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with all of the world championships not sure to be on the line.

Provided Itauma can continue to impress, he should be able to fight for the WBO heavyweight title by the end of 2026 at the latest.

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Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay and learn more about the author. Phil has been an experienced boxing writer and World Boxing News Editor since 2010.