Wed. Mar 25th, 2026

Oleksandr Usyk Clarifies Stance on Agit Kabayel Fight Amid Retirement Plans

Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs), a two-time undisputed champion across the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, has outlined his ambitious intentions for the final three fights of his professional career before retirement.

His proposed schedule begins with a highly anticipated bout against kickboxer Rico Verhoeven, slated for May 23. This will be followed by a clash with the victor of the Wardley-Dubois fight, which is set to take place two weeks prior. The culmination of this plan is envisioned as a massive showdown with British heavyweight superstar Tyson Fury.

Usyk: I Am Not Obligated to Fight Kabayel

Despite these outlined plans, Usyk has not entirely dismissed the possibility that his ultimate career fight could involve Agit Kabayel (27-0, 19 KOs), the mandatory WBC challenger from Germany.

“Perhaps I will fight Agit Kabayel – it might be him instead of a third bout with Tyson Fury,” Usyk conceded. “I am merely outlining my current plan, but it is not set in stone. I understand that Agit’s fans are demanding this fight, saying ‘you must fight him.’ But I am not obligated to fight him.”

Usyk further elaborated on his priorities, stating, “I need to live my life, take care of my team and my children. As for fights, I just work diligently, as do my opponents. We will see, perhaps the fight with Agit will happen. I can say one thing: he is an excellent and very intelligent fighter.”

By Jack Thornley

Jack Thornley is a passionate MMA journalist based in Bristol. With over a decade covering everything from local amateur bouts to international UFC events, Jack brings an insider's perspective to his articles. His candid interviews with fighters reveal the human stories behind the combat.

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