Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has expressed his willingness to face at least two opponents: German contender Agit Kabayel and Dutch fighter Rico Verhoeven. This announcement follows Usyk’s recent victory over Verhoeven, which he secured through a technical knockout in the 11th round in Giza, Egypt.
Kabayel, who remains undefeated with a record of 27 wins and 19 knockouts, is a contender for a bout against Usyk under the WBC title. After Usyk’s match with Verhoeven, Kabayel stepped into the ring to challenge the Ukrainian.
Meanwhile, Saudi promoter Turki Al-Sheikh has suggested a rematch between Usyk and Verhoeven, noting that the latter put up a strong fight, leading on one judge’s scorecard before the technical knockout ended the bout.
“This is Usyk’s choice. Now is not the time. [Kabayel] is a contender, but Rico deserves a rematch against Kabayel. We want to see a fight with Kabayel and then a rematch against [Verhoeven] in the Netherlands,” Al-Sheikh stated.
In response to these proposals, Usyk confirmed his readiness to fight both contenders. Kabayel has expressed a desire to host the match against Usyk in Germany.
“Okay, no problem. Brother, I am ready. I can fight both of them, no problem,” Usyk told Sky Sports.
Verhoeven was also asked about the possibility of a rematch, having led in the championship fight according to one judge’s scorecard, while the other two judges recorded a draw before the technical knockout occurred.
“His excellency [Turki] told me he wants a rematch. But that’s not my decision. We’ll see what happens,” Verhoeven remarked regarding the potential for a rematch with Usyk.
Usyk continues to hold the WBC, WBA, and IBF world champion titles, with three contenders lined up from various organizations. British boxer Moses Itauma is the contender for the WBA title, while Cuban Frank Sanchez has emerged as the new contender for the IBF title following the Usyk-Verhoeven undercard.
Oleksandr Usyk has indicated his readiness to fight both Agit Kabayel and Rico Verhoeven after his recent victory over Verhoeven. The heavyweight champion holds multiple titles and faces several contenders moving forward.