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Oleksandr Usyk faces mandatory title defense against Agit Kabayel

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 12:07 AM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Oleksandr Usyk faces mandatory title defense against Agit Kabayel
Summary

Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered by the WBC to defend his heavyweight title against Agit Kabayel following recent changes in the division. The WBC confirmed that Kabayel, who has an unbeaten record of 27-0, is now the mandatory challenger after Usyk's victory over Rico Verhoeven on May 23. As the current holder of the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles, Usyk has a major decision ahead that could influence his reign and the heavyweight moving forward. Negotiations for the fight are expected to begin soon as Usyk considers his options.

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By the Numbers
  • •WBC orders Oleksandr Usyk to defend against Agit Kabayel.
  • •Usyk holds the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles.
  • •Kabayel is unbeaten with 27 wins, 19 by knockout.
  • •Negotiations for the title fight will begin shortly.
  • •Usyk's decision impacts the future of heavyweight boxing.
Latest Updates
  • 12:07 AMYahoo Sports — Oleksandr Usyk Faces an Unwanted Problem as Heavyweight Future Hangs in the Balance
What they're saying
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The heavyweight division has entered a new phase after the World Boxing Council officially moved to enforce its mandatory challenger […]

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