Usyk’s future has turn out to be certainly one of boxing’s biggest talking points following his controversial Eleventh-round stoppage victory over Rico Verhoeven in May. While some observers have called for a rematch with the decorated kickboxing champion, others imagine the undefeated Ukrainian should fulfill his obligations as WBC heavyweight champion.
The previous two-weight world champion argued that Kabayel deserves the following opportunity.
“If he’s going to remain lively, then Kabayel deserves a title shot. You may’t just stay lively and keep a world title hostage,” said Malignaggi to Froch on Fighting. “If you happen to’re going to be a champion, then you have got to either be stripped or you have got to take in your mandatory.”
Malignaggi also questioned how for much longer Usyk should proceed competing at the very best level, pointing to the truth of aging even for elite fighters.
“I believe at this age, it’s very, very tough to maintain a championship level on a regular basis in the event you’re a man like Usyk,” Malignaggi said. “In order that’s why I believe he’s completed a lot. Possibly retirement is the way in which. But when he’s going to retire, then retire.”
The comments come amid growing debate surrounding the 39-year-old’s next move. Usyk has previously indicated that he intends to have only a limited variety of fights remaining before ending his profession, but his latest performance prompted fresh questions on how for much longer he can maintain the standards that made him a two-time undisputed champion.
Kabayel has strengthened his case for a title shot with a formidable run of victories that has elevated him into mandatory position with the WBC. If Usyk chooses to proceed as champion, the unbeaten German now appears to be first in line.
In Malignaggi’s view, the problem leaves little room for debate. A champion either defends against the challenger he’s required to face or steps aside to permit the division to maneuver forward.
