In a thrilling display of power and precision, Agit Kabayel silenced the doubters and retained his WBC interim heavyweight title, but here's where it gets controversial: he's now boldly calling out Oleksandr Usyk for a showdown that could shake the boxing world.
In a dominant performance, Agit Kabayel halted Damian Knyba in the third round, solidifying his undefeated record and staking his claim as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division. This victory marked Kabayel's return to the ring since his February 2025 triumph over Zhilei Zhang, his first title defense on home soil in Germany. Despite a strong opening from Knyba, Kabayel weathered the storm and took control in Oberhausen, unleashing a barrage of right-hand punches in the final minute of the third round that forced the referee to step in.
And this is the part most people miss: Kabayel's post-fight interview was a masterclass in showmanship. Addressing the crowd at the Rudolf Weber-Arena, he asked who they wanted to see him face next, and the resounding chant of 'Usyk' echoed through the arena. This wasn't just a victory speech; it was a declaration of intent. Kabayel later told DAZN, 'I've waited so long for this title shot. Last time, I beat three monsters in the Riyadh Season. Give me the world title fight. I'm ready. Really, I'm ready. Let's go.'
But here's the kicker: Kabayel isn't just talking the talk. In a November interview with Sky Sports, he boldly proclaimed himself as the best opponent for Oleksandr Usyk, the unified world heavyweight champion. While he acknowledged that Usyk might not choose him for his next defense, Kabayel highlighted the massive market potential in Germany, suggesting a stadium-sized showdown. 'I think when Usyk's team understands this, maybe he'll say, 'Let's go, Kabayel, I'll fight with you,'' he added.
Is Kabayel biting off more than he can chew, or is he the legitimate threat Usyk needs to prove his dominance? This call-out has sparked heated debates among fans and analysts alike. Some argue that Kabayel hasn't faced the same level of competition as Usyk, while others believe his undefeated record and recent performances make him a credible challenger. What do you think? Is Kabayel ready for Usyk, or is this a step too far? Let us know in the comments below.
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