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MMA·May 4, 2026 02:58 PM ET

Frank Warren wanted Joshua tune-up against Moses Itauma

Promoter pitches a tougher warm-up for AJ.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated May 41 min read
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What happened: On Ariel Helwani's program, promoter Frank Warren said he would have preferred Anthony Joshua's upcoming tune-up fight to be against Moses Itauma rather than the booked opponent. Warren framed Itauma as the more compelling stylistic test ahead of Joshua's planned return.

Why it matters: Joshua is being lined up for a comeback bout before a long-rumored showdown with Tyson Fury, and the choice of warm-up shapes how sharp he looks heading into that fight. Itauma is one of the most-hyped young British heavyweights, so Warren's preference reframes the matchmaking debate around risk versus reward for an aging former champion.

What to watch: Watch for Joshua's camp or Matchroom to respond to Warren's comments, and for any movement on the timeline of a Joshua-Fury fight before the end of 2026. Itauma's next booking will also be a tell on whether promoters see a path to that matchup.

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