The heavyweight division could soon see a major shake-up, as #1 WBO-ranked Moses Itauma (12-0, 10 KOs) may be next in line to face interim champion Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) for the vacant WBO heavyweight title but only if current champion Oleksandr Usyk opts not to defend against Parker.
Why Parker vs. Itauma Could Happen
Parker’s promoter David Higgins revealed to Sky Sports that Usyk’s camp has made no contact regarding mandatory defense negotiations. If Usyk refuses to face Parker, the WBO would strip him of the belt or accept his voluntary vacating.
That would put Parker already holding the interim title in position to either:
-
Be elevated to full champion, or
-
Fight Itauma for the vacant strap.
“There is no noise, no engagement, no negotiation from Usyk’s team… Usyk doesn’t want to defend his WBO world title,” Higgins said. “I think Joseph will fight Moses Itauma, it’s just a matter of when.”
A Risky Step for Itauma
For Queensberry Promotions, allowing the 20-year-old Itauma to jump into a title fight with Parker would be a massive gamble. Unlike Itauma’s upcoming opponent Dillian Whyte a 37-year-old seen as past his prime Parker is still in his athletic peak, durable, and defensively sharp.
Critics point to Itauma’s lack of high-level professional and amateur experience as a vulnerability. Facing a seasoned, world-class fighter like Parker could expose him early in his career.
If Itauma were to suffer a one-sided defeat, it could derail his hype train and force Queensberry into a long, uphill rebuilding process.
The Usyk Factor
Usyk is expected to vacate the WBO belt rather than face Parker, as the payday would pale in comparison to his recent bouts with Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois. This would open the door for Parker and Itauma to meet for the full title.
If Usyk walks away from his WBO title, fans could see a fascinating clash between Parker’s experience and Itauma’s youth but for the 20 year old prospect, it’s a high-stakes leap that could make or break his early career.
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
