Warren blocks Usyk-Verhoeven rematch, demands Kabayel defence

Frank Warren has shut down talk of an Oleksandr Usyk rematch with Rico Verhoeven, warning the heavyweight champion will be stripped of his WBC title if he does not defend against mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel instead.

Warren told Sky Sports that Queensberry Promotions is pushing for the Kabayel fight to happen in autumn 2026, regardless of renewed interest in a second Verhoeven bout following the Dutchman's near-upset in Giza. Usyk stopped Verhoeven in the final second of round 11 earlier this month after the kickboxer had threatened one of boxing's biggest shocks.

Queensberry insists on Kabayel mandatory bout

Promoter Turki Alalshikh revived rematch speculation when he took the stage after the fight and suggested Verhoeven's performance had changed the conversation. Warren dismissed that prospect entirely. "We're not going to stand for that," he said. "If he doesn't take it, he'll have to vacate it, or be stripped, it's as simple as that. You're a champion, you defend the belts."

The Queensberry chief praised Kabayel as "a real class act" who has beaten every opponent put in front of him and deserves his mandatory position. Warren admitted Verhoeven surprised him with both his aggression and ring craft, saying he thought the kickboxer was ahead on the cards before the late stoppage. He also questioned the referee's decision to wave off the fight with just seconds remaining in the round.

Usyk's camp has not publicly committed to either opponent. The Kabayel defence is expected to be ordered by the WBC if the Ukrainian intends to keep the belt.

Source: skysports.com