Champion launches harsh criticism at Usyk

Interim WBC heavyweight champion Agit Kabayel (27-0, 19 KOs) has criticized the upcoming fight between unified champion Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) and Rico Verhoeven (1-0, 1 KO).

However, the German fighter admitted he was especially surprised by the WBC’s decision to approve the bout as a title fight.

The fight is scheduled to take place on May 23 in Egypt.

“Of course, this is more of a show,” Agit said. “I think it’s a good fight for the fans.
It’s not really a sporting event as much as it is entertainment — a show fight. But why not? People want to see it. Although, honestly, I believe he (Usyk) should have fought me instead.”

“When I saw the news about the WBC title, I thought: ‘This is crazy,’” Kabayel admitted. “Normally, in a situation like this, I would call Mauricio Sulaiman and ask him, ‘What the hell is going on?’ But I respect the decision and hope I’ll get the next opportunity.”

Speaking about his prediction for the fight, Agit reminded everyone that “this is boxing, and in the heavyweight division one punch can change everything. But we’ll see. It’s a good fight for the fans, although I think it will be a pretty easy night for Usyk.”