Oleksandr Usyk has eased his stance on a potential clash with Agit Kabayel, raising fresh uncertainty over a long-discussed third fight with Tyson Fury. Speaking in an interview with the Daily Mail the undisputed heavyweight champion said Kabayel could fit into his plans following his upcoming title defense against Rico Verhoeven in May.
Usyk had previously outlined a clear path away from Kabyle, but his latest comments suggest a change. While he remains linked to the winner of the WBO eliminator between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, the bigger picture now looks more flexible than before.
Oleksandr Usyk leaves options open after Verhoeven fight
Usyk made it clear that his plans are not on hold, even if expectations remain for his next few fights.
"Maybe I'll fight Kabyle, maybe I won't face Tyson Fury for the third time, and instead I'll fight Kabyle. I only tell my plan, but that's not set in stone. I understand the agit fans are saying you have to fight him. But I don't have to fight him. I've got to live my life, I've got to take care of my team, my kids. As far as fighting goes, I just work hard, and my Opponents work hard."
"Maybe it's possible that I fight Agit. He's a great fighter, and he's very smart."
The tone is different from earlier this year when Usyk's roadmap appeared certain. Now, depending on how things go, he is clearly keeping multiple doors open.
Inevitable pressure builds around Agit Kabyle
Kabayel's status as a WBC mandatory challenger has been a topic of discussion for months. His camp has worked hard for a title shot, arguing that he has earned it.
The 32-year-old is unstoppable and is considered one of the more disciplined legends outside the top level. Usyk's public praise only adds weight to his case.
If Usyk chooses Kabayel next, it will satisfy quiet criticism of his avoidance of the expectations and mandates of the sanctioning body. If not, the pressure is likely to increase.
Tyson Fury Trilogy No Longer Guaranteed
After the previous two fights, a third fight with Fury seemed inevitable. Now, that scenario is much less certain.
Fury has continued to seek a trilogy following his defeat in December 2024, but Usyk's latest comments suggest it is no longer a priority.
Now everything depends on time. The Wardley-Dubois winner still factors into the title picture, and Usyk's May bout with Verhoeven remains the immediate focus.
For now, the heavyweight division remains fluid. However, one thing is clear. Usyk is still deciding what's next.
