Moses Itauma delivered a strong message to the heavyweight division by defeating Jermaine Franklin decisively. Itauma, with an impressive record of stopping 12 out of 14 opponents, achieved what Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte could not by stopping Franklin before the fifth round.
The 21-year-old British fighter showcased his dominance by dropping Franklin in the third round. Itauma expressed his satisfaction, stating that he attempted an early knockout but adjusted his strategy to secure the win with well-placed body shots.
From the beginning of the bout, Itauma controlled the pace, landing effective punches and showcasing his speed. He maintained pressure on Franklin, mixing body shots with head blows to maintain his advantage. Franklin struggled to mount a significant offense and was knocked down in the third round.
Despite Franklin lasting until the fifth round, Itauma remained composed and continued his calculated approach. The fight reached a swift conclusion in the fifth round when Itauma landed a decisive left uppercut followed by a right hand, sending Franklin to the canvas.
In other matches on the undercard, Willy Hutchinson claimed victory over Ezra Taylor, Nathan Heaney suffered a defeat against Gerome Warburton, and Brad Pauls achieved a stunning upset by stopping the previously unbeaten Shakiel Thompson in the ninth round.
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