Usyk’s Team Says Agit Kabayel Fight Needs Serious Offer As Decision Nears

Team director Sergey Lapin says Usyk remains open to facing WBC mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel if the commercial terms justify the fight

Oleksandr Usyk’s team says a fight with WBC mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel remains a realistic option, but only if the financial package meets expectations. Team director Sergey Lapin says the heavyweight champion will decide his next move by the end of the week after reviewing multiple opportunities.

Addressing the situation, Usyk’s team director Serge Lapin told Swedish betting outlet Snabbare that the unbeaten Ukrainian is open to the fight but is not feeling pressure to take it.

“Agit Kabayel is an excellent fighter, a worthy champion and a man we respect. There is nothing personal here. But fights of this magnitude are not made through social media or public pressure,” said Lapin.

“Oleksandr has spent his entire career proving who he is. At this stage, the question is no longer what Usyk owes anyone. The question is what kind of event can be built?”

Lapin indicated that a substantial commercial package would be required to make the fight happen.

“A serious offer, backed by serious people, the right commercial structure, broadcasters and site fee support, is how the biggest fights in the world are made,” Lapin said.

“If the numbers and the opportunity make sense for everyone, then everything is possible. We are open to serious business, not noise.”

Lapin also revealed that Usyk’s team is considering other opportunities and expects to reach a decision before the end of the week.

“Nothing personal and nothing emotional will prevent this fight from happening with Agit. But if there is no serious commercial structure behind the fight, then it becomes difficult to justify.”

“Oleksandr has earned the right to carefully evaluate every option. We are speaking with different parties and considering all opportunities. A decision will be made by the end of this week, and everyone will know where we stand.”

The WBC ordered Usyk to face Kabayel earlier this month after the German contender became the mandatory challenger. If Usyk decides against the fight and pursues another opportunity instead, he could be forced to vacate the WBC heavyweight title, which would likely result in Kabayel being elevated from interim champion to full champion.

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