The WBA has officially stepped in, ordering Kubrat Pulev to defend his WBA “Regular” heavyweight title against rising prospect Moses Itauma. 

 The pair now has 30 days — until November 14 — to negotiate the bout’s terms.  If no agreement is reached by then, the fight will proceed to purse bids.

Background: Pulev, the “Regular” Belt & Itauma’s Rise

Pulev, a seasoned veteran, defeated Mahmoud Charr in a unanimous decision to win the WBA Regular heavyweight title in December 2024.   He had previously challenged for world titles but was unsuccessful against Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko. 

 Meanwhile, Moses Itauma is one of boxing’s most popular young heavyweights.  At only 20 years old, he has an undefeated record (13-0, 11 KOs) and recently made headlines for knocking out former contender Dillian Whyte in the first round. 

 Itauma was scheduled to return on December 13, possibly on the same card as Derek Chisora, but the WBA’s order could change or cancel those plans.

What Prompted the Order?

Originally, Pulev was scheduled to defend against Michael Hunter, the WBA’s designated mandatory challenger.  However, Hunter reportedly withdrew, opting for another fight, leaving Pulev without a scheduled title defense. 

 With nothing in place, the WBA’s Championships Committee declared that Pulev must now defend against the top-ranked WBA contender, Moses Itauma, in order to maintain activity and legitimacy in their heavyweight rankings.

Key Questions & Storylines

Is the “Regular” title still meaningful?

 Pulev holds the “Regular” version of the WBA belt, not the “Super” or undisputed title, which sparks an immediate debate.  Oleksandr Usyk currently holds the “Super” version.   Some critics regard “Regular” belts as inferior, but any title fight is still significant, particularly for a young contender like Itauma.

Is the age gap a concern?

 Pulev is 44 years old.  Many would see a loss to Itauma as a passing of the torch, whereas a win would strengthen his resolve. 

 Some observers have already criticized the matchup, claiming that Itauma is being set up for a title fight against an aging opponent who may no longer be the toughest challenge.   Others believe that the experienced and durable Pulev can still add value and validity to the fight, particularly if he pushes Itauma.

Will Itauma Accept?

Itauma had previously declined a fight in an IBF eliminator against Frank Sanchez, preferring to pursue another path.   Accepting Pulev now may raise questions about strategy and ambitions.  However, the opportunity to win a version of a world heavyweight title is appealing to any rising fighter. 

Possible outcomes and stakes

 If a deal is reached, the fight could take place as early as 2026, depending on logistics and promotions.

 If purse bids are called, whoever wins the bid will promote the fight.

 If Itauma wins, he becomes a titleholder, elevating his status to serious contender territory.

 If Pulev wins, he solidifies his late-career relevance, potentially arranging another defence or retiring on a high note.

Final Thoughts

The WBA’s order for Pulev to defend against Itauma sets up an intriguing matchup: a rising star vying for his first title against a seasoned boxer looking to hang on.

 Fans will now wait to see if both sides can reach an agreement, whether Itauma seizes the opportunity, and how the weight of belts—and expectations—shapes what could be a watershed moment in the heavyweight division.