BERLIN — WBC heavyweight champion Agit Kabayel is seeking a new opponent for his upcoming title defense in Germany after Nelson Hysa withdrew from the bout. The fight had been finalized, with promoter Frank Warren confirming that terms were agreed upon before Hysa unexpectedly backed out of the opportunity.
“He came into the office, we agreed terms – contract and everything done – and he sent a message a couple days later saying he didn’t want the fight,” said Queensberry Promotions boss Frank Warren. “So we’re moving on. We’re announcing Agit’s fight next week. All I’m in is the Agit Kabayel business in Germany. He’s going to have a top 10 opponent, and he’ll defend his title.”
Kabayel, who was elevated to full world champion in June following the vacancy of belts by Oleksandr Usyk, remains focused on his first title defense. The 33-year-old previously secured a secondary title with a sixth-round finish over Zhilei Zhang and successfully defended it against Damian Knyba in January. Looking ahead to 2027, Kabayel is targeting a potential unification bout, which could involve the winner of the upcoming WBO title rematch between Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardley.