Usyk reportedly considering retirement but could face Kabayel before the year ends
By Gabriel F. Cordero
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 25 Jun 2026
Rumors have been circulating about undefeated Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk potentially retiring from professional boxing. But what is certain is that talks are underway for him to face undefeated German challenger Agit Kabayel, 33 (27-0, 19 KOs).
In his last fight, Usyk successfully defended his titles against the surprising Rico Verhoeven (Netherlands) last May at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Usyk's mandatory challenger is now Kabayel, who holds the interim WBC heavyweight title in 2025.
Kabayel was born in Leverkusen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, to Kurdish parents originally from Pazarcık, Turkey.
Boxing fans are hoping Usyk will return to the ring soon, mainly before the end of 2026.
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