Former cruiserweight world champion Johnny Nelson has explained how he views a possible clash between Moses Itauma and Oleksandr Usyk.
At just 21-years-old Itauma is already mentioned in conversation with Usyk but Nelson believes the Ukrainian would be a step too far.
Since turning professional in 2021, Itauma has been a revelation in the heavyweight division.
He has already picked up some impressive wins on the biggest stage, including a first-round knockout of Dempsey McKean on the Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury undercard.
Nelson spoke to Daily Mail Boxing about the prospect.
“[Itauma’s] nowhere near the finished article. He’s only 21-years-old, I think we’ve seen maybe 35% of him.”
Itauma has amassed an impressive 13-0 record with 11 of those wins coming by stoppage.
He was last in action in August where he stopped who was on paper his biggest test, Dillian Whyte in the opening round.
‘The Bodysnatcher’ has competed at the highest level throughout his career.
He has faced heavyweight stars like Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Joseph Parker but was no match for the Kent man.
Following Itauma’s win in August, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Alalshikh posted on social media saying he wants to see him face Usyk next.
I want to see Usyk against Itauma. This is the fight.
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) July 19, 2025
Itauma is currently the WBA’s number one contender to Usyk’s world title.
Nelson also gave his thoughts on the potential fight, claiming it would not be a one-sided fight.
“I think Moses gives him hellfire, but I think Usyk is too clever for him.
“I think he’s too clever for all of them, but it’s a dangerous fight for him.
“I would expect Usyk to beat him but don’t write this boy off.”
‘The Cat’ is set to return later this year with Deontay Wilder seeming the most likely opponent for his comeback fight.
Itauma was scheduled to return this week, headlining at the Co-op Live Arena, but a torn bicep in camp meant the comeback was postponed.
He was set to face American heavyweight Jermaine Franklin.
Franklin comes off a lacklustre win against Ivan Dychko on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford in September.
The event has been rescheduled to March 28 where Itauma will hope to get a statement win after seven months away from the ring.
In 2025, the 21-year-old boxed a total of just over five minutes in his two wins against Mike Balogun and Dillian Whyte.
