Usyk on Kabayel & Fury Trilogy Twist | Charlotte Daly Interview
Oleksandr Usyk is considering a fight with Agit Kabayel instead of a third bout with Tyson Fury, potentially altering the landscape of the heavyweight boxing division. The Ukrainian boxer revealed the possibility in recent comments, acknowledging the mandatory challenge presented by Kabayel while still leaving the door open for a trilogy fight with Fury.
Usyk, who is scheduled to return to the ring in May with a bout against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven, stated, “Maybe I will fight Kabayel – maybe I don’t face Tyson Fury for a third time and I fight Kabayel instead.” He emphasized that his plans are not yet finalized, stating, “I only say my plan but that is not set in stone.”
The shift in Usyk’s stance comes as the World Boxing Council (WBC) continues to push for Kabayel to receive his mandatory title shot. Kabayel remains an undefeated challenger, and pressure has been mounting for the fight to be enforced. Usyk acknowledged the pressure from Kabayel’s supporters, saying, “I understand the Agit fans are saying you must fight him, you must fight him. But I don’t have to fight him.”
Beyond the potential fights with Kabayel and Fury, Usyk is also considering a bout against the winner of the upcoming fight between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois for the WBO belt. A victory in that fight would position him to pursue becoming a three-time undisputed heavyweight champion. Usyk explained his broader perspective, stating, “I must live my life, I must look after my team, my children. As for fighting, I just function hard and my opponents work hard.”
Usyk described Kabayel as “a great fighter and he’s very smart,” indicating a respect for his potential opponent. He also stressed that the order of his future fights is not fixed, leaving multiple options on the table. “All I can say is he’s a great fighter and he’s very smart,” Usyk said of Kabayel.
The situation remains fluid, with Usyk weighing his options and considering both the mandatory obligations presented by the WBC and his ambitions to unify the heavyweight titles. The outcome of the Wardley vs. Dubois fight will also play a role in shaping Usyk’s next move.