Usyk's Next Fight: Kabayel Mandatory or Verhoeven Rematch

Oleksandr Usyk stands at a crossroads where his next fight will shape how history remembers the final act of his heavyweight reign. The Ukrainian champion has two clear paths forward: defend against mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel or pursue a rematch with kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven, whose first bout ended in controversy last year.

Kabayel, ranked No. 2 by The Ring, has built his case through steady wins over dangerous opponents while bigger names in the division faded. The unbeaten 33-year-old German represents a traditional boxing challenge — younger, naturally larger, and carrying genuine threat through relentless pressure and work rate. For purists, this is the obvious choice. Usyk would avoid accusations of cherry-picking and add another elite name to a resume that already includes two wins each over Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Daniel Dubois.

Verhoeven Rematch Offers Global Spectacle

The Verhoeven alternative carries different weight. Their first encounter drew massive crossover attention, with many observers scoring rounds heavily for the kickboxing star before a disputed stoppage in the eleventh round. As The Ring's Rick Reeno notes in his latest column, the rematch "would likely attract crossover fans, international media coverage and mainstream attention that few heavyweight fights can currently generate."

The business case is straightforward. Verhoeven remains one of Europe's most recognizable combat sports figures, and the unresolved nature of their first meeting creates natural demand for a second. At 39, Usyk may be weighing legacy against event value — a calculation most all-time greats eventually face.

The decision comes down to whether Usyk prioritizes satisfying boxing tradition or creating another global spectacle. Either choice carries risk. Kabayel represents a legitimate threat who could upset an aging champion. Verhoeven offers the bigger stage but opens Usyk to criticism for bypassing a mandatory obligation, potentially costing him his WBC title. The Ukrainian has cleaned out the heavyweight division and earned the right to choose his ending. That choice will determine whether his final chapter reads as champion or showman.

Source: ringmagazine.com