British-Nigerian boxers Moses Itauma and Lawrence Okolie have been ordered to face each other in a WBC heavyweight final eliminator. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for unified champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The decision by WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán has sparked debate, especially from interim champion Agit Kabayel and the British Boxing Board of Control. Okolie, ranked first, and Itauma, ranked fourth, are both promoted by Queensberry Promotions. Both fighters have upcoming bouts—Okolie in Nigeria on December 19, and Itauma against Jermaine Franklin on January 24.
Okolie, a former cruiserweight and bridgerweight champion, recently moved up to heavyweight and is eager to test himself against his compatriot. Itauma, known for his power and speed, is considered one of the brightest young talents in the division.
This high-stakes clash could reshape the heavyweight rankings and set up a future showdown with Usyk.
