Boxing
Heavyweight world champion's next fight confirmed... and it's not against Moses Itauma
Parker vs Wardley exclusively on DAZN PPV - Oct 25
Moses Itauma will not be facing Kubrat Pulev next after the WBA ‘regular’ heavyweight champion announced another opponent for his return to the ring in December.
Pulev, 44, was ordered to defend his belt against Itauma, who is 24 years his junior, earlier this week.
However, it has now been confirmed that he will face Oleksandr Usyk’s former rival, Murat Gassiev, at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium as part of the IBA’s ‘Festival of Boxing’ on December 12.
Pulev picked up his title last December but has not fought since. He has won 32 of his 35 professional fights, losing only to Wladimir Klitschko, Anthony Joshua and Derek Chisora.
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Mark Robinson
Meanwhile, the 32-year-old Gassiev lost a unanimous decision to Usyk back in 2018 when the pair had an undisputed cruiserweight clash in the final of the World Boxing Super Series.
He subsequently moved up to heavyweight and has won six of his seven fights in the division, with his lone defeat being a split decision loss to Otto Wallin in 2023.
Pulev taking on Gassiev leaves Itauma still looking for a dance partner for his next fight, which is expected to be in Manchester on December 13.
The 20-year-old Brit has struggled to find a suitable opponent after knocking out former world title challenger Dillian Whyte inside a round in August.
His promoter, Frank Warren, has claimed several rivals have priced themselves out of a fight with Itauma, including Filip Hrgovic.
Fellow Brit David Adeleye and US star Michael Hunter have emerged as frontrunners to face Itauma next.
The rising star is keen to build momentum ahead of a potential world title shot in 2026, with Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh keen to see him face Usyk before the Ukrainian great heads into retirement.
Watch Parker vs Wardley live on DAZN
Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley fight on Saturday, October 25, to become the WBO mandatory challenger to Oleksandr Usyk. Watch the fight and undercard live and exclusive on DAZN PPV.
