Boxing
Teddy Atlas reveals whether he thinks Jermaine Franklin can takes Moses Itauma into deep waters
Itauma vs Franklin: Subscribe to watch - March 28
Franklin is well known to British fight fans after extending both Dillian Whyte and Anthony Joshua the 12-round distance, but will he be able to provide Itauma with much needed rounds after the young superstar has blown his way through several leading contenders?
Much hyped since his professional debut, the last few fights of Itauma’s career have seen him move to another level with stunning first-round stoppages over Demsey McKean and former world title challenger, Whyte.
Now, Frank Warren, who is guiding Itauma towards the top, is eager to see his man get some more ring time as he prepares for the biggest tests available at heavyweight.
Franklin may have been defeated by Whyte and Joshua, but he gave a good account of himself on both occasions and the man from Michigan is renowned for his durability after going the distance against many big punchers.
Teddy Atlas, a keen student of the heavyweight division and former trainer of Mike Tyson and Michael Moorer, has delivered his verdict on how Itauma vs Franklin could play out.
“With Itauma, it can always be a knockout. Punchers are born, they’re not made,” said Atlas when speaking exclusively to DAZN News courtesy of BetVictor Online Casino .
“He’s that guy. He can take anyone out in one or two rounds. He’s that talented and that much of a package. Technically solid. He can fight inside or outside. He can use his legs. This guy is talented and he will be heavyweight champion.
“I've gone with the over. With Itauma, it’s probably easier to go with the under but I've looked at the tape. I think that Franklin can be the first guy to take him, I’m not gonna say deep waters, but at least extend him a little and make him go some rounds.
“I think that Franklin has enough experience at the higher level, and enough ability and technique to get until at least the late rounds.”
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