Joshua vs Itauma in Nigeria Could Eclipse 'Rumble in the Jungle', Promoter Says

Posted : 20 July 2026

A proposed heavyweight clash between Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma in Nigeria has been hailed as a potential landmark event that could surpass the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" in global appeal.

The idea was put forward by boxing promoter Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, who believes a fight between the British heavyweights of Nigerian descent would capture the attention of fans across Africa and the world. Speaking to Sky Sports, Adamu said the contest would be a perfect opportunity to bring elite boxing back to the continent.

Joshua is preparing for his return to the ring against Kristian Prenga on July 25. A long-awaited all-British showdown with Tyson Fury is also expected later this year if both fighters remain on course.

Meanwhile, unbeaten prospect Moses Itauma continues his rapid rise in the heavyweight division. The 21-year-old is scheduled to face experienced Croatian contender Filip Hrgovic on August 29 in what is expected to be the toughest test of his professional career.

Despite those immediate commitments, Adamu believes a future meeting between Joshua and Itauma in Lagos or another Nigerian city would be one of the biggest sporting events Africa has ever hosted.

He pointed to Africa's population of more than 1.4 billion people and its youthful demographic as key reasons why the fight could generate enormous global viewership. According to Adamu, both fighters are international stars with strong Nigerian roots, making the contest a unique story that would resonate across the continent.

Adamu even suggested the bout could surpass the historic 1974 heavyweight title fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo. That contest remains one of boxing's most celebrated events and helped establish Africa as a major stage for world sport.

Joshua, a two-time unified heavyweight world champion, has repeatedly stated that he still wants to become the undisputed champion before retiring. Although a clash with Tyson Fury remains the immediate focus, Adamu believes Joshua still has the desire to continue fighting beyond that stage of his career.

The promoter said one of his biggest ambitions is to stage Joshua against Itauma in Nigeria before the former champion calls time on his career. He described the all-Nigerian heritage matchup on home soil as a blockbuster occasion that would celebrate African boxing while inspiring the next generation of fighters.

While the fight remains only a proposal, it has already sparked excitement among boxing fans eager to see two of the sport's biggest heavyweight names compete in Nigeria.

Joshua vs Itauma in Nigeria Could Eclipse 'Rumble in the Jungle', Promoter Says

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