Interview with Moses Itauma: Usyk is abusing his power

British heavyweight fighter Moses Itauma (13–0, 11 KOs) gave an interview to The Ring magazine.

The young knockout artist outlined his ideal 2026, commented on Ukrainian champion Oleksandr Usyk (24–0, 15 KOs), and answered what he needs to do to make a fight against the former undisputed champion inevitable. Itauma will face American Jermaine Franklin this Saturday.

– This will be your first fight of 2026. What does your ideal year look like?
– To have two or three fights. Hopefully I can win a world title by the end of the year. I’ve been saying that for a while now, but obviously Usyk holds the belts and he’s kind of abusing his power. We’re forced to wait. But I think my career is heading in the right direction.

– I’d say the same, you’re definitely moving in the right direction. Speaking of Usyk, he was recently on our show talking about the final stage of his career. He named some potential opponents and, as you already know, you weren’t mentioned. But when your name came up, he said he’s a big fan of what you’re doing, though he noted you’re not ready yet and he doesn’t want to break you. What do you make of his comments?
– What do you think about it?

– I think it’s the best fight we could see in the heavyweight division. I want to see it.
– I want to see it too. I mean, I want to be part of it. Like I said, Usyk is at the top right now and he’s kind of abusing his power. I mean, he’s earned the right to do whatever he wants. Obviously, some people will say it’s too early, but a lot of people said the same thing when I fought Dillian Whyte. In boxing there will always be opinions, and Usyk will definitely have something to say. He doesn’t have to go on camera and say, “No, I don’t want to potentially risk my career because a 21-year-old is climbing the rankings.” He obviously has something to say, but I don’t think people believe him. If they do, that’s their opinion.

– I think everyone wants to see that fight before Usyk retires. He’s 39 now, so there’s not much time left. But Moses, when you say he’s abusing his power, do you think he’s essentially avoiding the fight because it could damage his legacy?
– No. What I meant by abusing his power is more about the fact that he’s the world champion, holds three major titles, and instead of fighting his mandatory challengers, he’s fighting other people. Take Rico Verhoeven for example – by the way, I’m a big fan of his – but can he really fight for the WBC title in his first professional bout? I don’t think that’s right. But if there’s a chance to make some money, then why not. Still, I don’t believe he should be fighting for the title, because there are other fighters like me, Agit Kabayel, Lawrence Okolie and Fabio Wardley who are trying to get there. I think Usyk is just joking around.

– Maybe we’ll see you fight Kabayel this summer?
– You know what? I like what you said: “Me and Kabayel in the summer.” I’ve never thought about that. It’s a good idea. I’m not against it – I like Germany too. Honestly, I’d go to Germany and fight him. But sorry – right now I’m focused on Jermaine Franklin.**