The unbeaten German heavyweight retained his WBC interim title with a third-round stoppage of Damian Knyba — then used his post-fight interview to push for a world title shot against Oleksandr Usyk.
Agit Kabayel’s rise through the heavyweight picture gathered even more momentum on Saturday night as the German contender stopped Poland’s Damian Knyba in the third round to retain the WBC interim heavyweight title — and keep his perfect record intact at 27-0.
Fighting on home soil in Oberhausen, Kabayel absorbed early pressure in the opening round before steadily turning the contest in his favour. By the third, he was in full control, forcing the referee to step in after a sharp burst of right hands in the final minute of the round.
Full fight-night coverage and the post-fight quotes were carried by Sky Sports’ boxing report, with Kabayel later reiterating his desire to move straight from interim champion to a full world title opportunity.
Usyk chants, then a clear message: “I’m ready”
The most telling moment came after the stoppage, when Kabayel asked the crowd who they wanted next — and the arena responded with chants of “Usyk”. Kabayel didn’t hesitate.
“Give me the world title fight. I’m ready… Really, I’m ready. Let’s go.”
Kabayel’s position is simple: he’s stayed unbeaten, he’s now defended the interim belt, and he believes the next step should be a shot at the top of the division — ideally against Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning unified heavyweight champion.
Why this win matters for the heavyweight picture
- Record: Kabayel improves to 27-0, maintaining his unbeaten run.
- Title status: He remains WBC interim heavyweight champion.
- Momentum: A stoppage win on home soil strengthens his case for a major step up.
- Next-fight narrative: A direct call-out plus “Usyk” chants creates instant demand and storyline.
Kabayel has also been vocal about the commercial upside of a big fight in Germany, suggesting a stadium setting could be realistic if the right opponent and timing align. That’s the kind of angle promoters love — and it’s exactly the sort of argument that can help turn a “mandatory conversation” into an actual headline bout.
What happens next?
The immediate question is whether Kabayel can translate an interim belt defence into a full world title opportunity — and against whom. Kabayel’s preference is clear, but heavyweight politics rarely move in straight lines. Usyk’s next defence, contractual commitments, and sanctioning-body decisions will all shape the timeline.
For now, Kabayel has done the one thing contenders must do: win convincingly, stay active, and create a post-fight moment that fans can’t ignore. For more official coverage and broadcast details around the event, you can also check DAZN.
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