WBA Sanctions Pulev–Gassiev Fight: What It Means for Itauma

According to insider Dan Rafael, the fight between Kubrat Pulev, the WBA Regular Heavyweight champion, and Murat Gassiev will be sanctioned as a voluntary title defense.

British Heavyweight Moses Itauma remains the mandatory challenger, and the winner of Pulev vs. Gassiev will be required to face him next.

Kubrat Pulev and Murat Gassiev are scheduled to meet on December 12 in Dubai as part of the IBA Pro event.

Moses Itauma will return to the ring on January 24 against Jermaine Franklin.

It is also reported that if both sides win their respective fights, they will be required to reach an agreement by February 9, 2026, with the purse split set at 50/50.

If no deal is reached, the WBA will order a purse bid.