The WBA is set to allow Kubrat Pulev to defend his ‘regular’ heavyweight title against Murat Gassiev, in a blow to Moses Itauma.
Pulev had been ordered to defend his lesser belt against Itauma earlier this month, with a November 14 deadline set to agree terms before going to purse bids.
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WBA No.1 Itauma will have to wait for his shot at the WBA ‘regular’ beltCredit: GETTY
To the surprise of many, IBA Pro then came out and announced a clash between Pulev and former cruiserweight world champion Murat Gassiev on December 12 in Dubai.
The press release suggested that the WBA belt was on the line, but the major sanctioning body had not given the fight the green light at the time of publication.
Pulev had been granted a voluntary defence after snatching the black and gold strap from Mahmoud Charr last December.
Yet he took too long to organise such a fight, and so the WBA ordered him to face Michael Hunter.
Don King won a purse bid to stage the contest, but the fight failed to materialise, leading to Itauma receiving the call.
However, it has since been confirmed that Pulev had already signed to face Gassiev before the WBA looked to seek a resolution with Itauma.
A ruling, obtained by esteemed boxing journalist Dan Rafael, has therefore declared that the WBA is “inclined” to sanction Pulev-Gassiev should the Bulgarian file a special permit request.
If Pulev files the request, as expected, then his mandatory commitment with Itauma will be delayed.
What did the WBA’s ruling say?
A letter issued on October 29 by WBA championship committee chairman Carlos Chavez read: “Since issuance of Resolution No.2025101417, which ordered that Kubrat Pulev defend his title against the leading available contender, Pulev informed the committee that he had contracted to defend the title against Murat Gassiev, now ranked No.12 in the heavyweight division and that that contract was signed before issuance of the latest resolution (Itauma’s order).
“The WBA was not aware of that contract at the time of the resolution issuance.
Moses Itauma warned he could face ‘downfall’ against former world champion
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Pulev is set to be granted a voluntary defence against GassievCredit: Dave Thompson/Matchroom
“Pursuant to Rule C.10, Pulev was required to defend his title by December 24, 2025.
“Rule C. 12 provides that the title defense must be against the mandatory contender or the next available leading contender. Gassiev does not appear to be either.
“At Pulev’s request, and consistent with his settlement agreement with the WBA, the WBA is inclined to sanction a Pulev-Gassiev bout.
“However, such a sanction must be issued consistent with WBA rules.
“Therefore, Pulev should file a special permit request to authorize his proposed title defense bout.
“Because time is of the essence for the affected parties, Pulev should file as soon as he is able, and the request will be considered on an expedited basis.”
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Gassiev is a former cruiserweight world championCredit: GETTYWhen will Moses Itauma return to the ring?
Itauma was supposed to face Pulev on December 13 in Manchester.
But according to BoxingScene, his handlers are now eyeing a February 7 date for the Chatham southpaw.
Queensberry Promotion’s December show is still expected to go ahead, with a trilogy bout between Derek Chisora and Dillian Whyte close to being confirmed as the new headliner.