Alexander Usyk is relinquishing his boxing titles, but he won’t be ending his career. This has implications for German boxing star Agit Kabayel.
Boxing champion Alexander Usyk is relinquishing his three remaining world titles! A fight against German heavyweight prospect Agit Kabayel is therefore most likely out of the question.
However, the Ukrainian will not be ending his career. “I’m relinquishing my belts, but I’m not leaving the sport of boxing. There’s more to come,” said the 39-year-old Usyk in an Instagram post on Friday.
Kabayel had challenged Usyk
The former undisputed champion most recently held the WBA, WBC, and IBF belts. Usyk had most recently successfully defended his WBC title in Giza against Dutchman Rico Verhoeven.
Kabayel then stepped into the ring with the Ukrainian and repeated his demand for a fight. Usyk responded evasively, as he had before—he had never shown much enthusiasm for a fight against Kabayel. The WBC had most recently ordered the fight between Usyk and Kabayel.
The German boxer wrote in the comments below the Instagram video: “A true legend inside and outside the ring. Thank you so much for everything you’ve done for the sport of boxing. I wish you only the best for the future.”
Will Kabayel now receive the belts?
For Kabayel (33), who has won all 27 of his professional fights, there are now two possibilities. Either one or more organizations will declare him the top contender and crown him world champion immediately—he would be the first German heavyweight champion since Max Schmeling—or the title will be deemed vacant, and Kabayel will get a shot at the belt(s).
What lies ahead for Usyk is also unclear. Most recently, there have been reports of connections to the “Zuffa Boxing” organization run by UFC boss Dana White.
