WBC President Affirms Usyk Faces Title Stripping If He Doesn’t Fight Kabael
The president of the World Boxing Council (WBC), Mauricio Sulaiman, has emphasized that Oleksandr Usyk risks losing his world heavyweight title unless he steps into the ring with Ajit Kabael. Kabael has been the interim WBC champion since February 2025 and has been Usyk’s top contender eagerly awaiting his opportunity to challenge for the unified heavyweight title.
WBC Mandates Bout with Kabael Following Usyk’s Recent Defense
Recently, the WBC sanctioned Usyk after he opted to defend his belt against kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven in a match held in Egypt on May 23. However, the organization has mandated that Usyk must face Kabael in his next fight, thus prioritizing the required title defense over voluntary bouts.
Usyk Faces Pressure for a Rematch but WBC Remains Firm
There have been increasing calls for an immediate rematch between Usyk and Verhoeven due to the controversial nature of their previous encounter. Despite the clamor for this rematch, Sulaiman confirmed that the WBC’s stance does not support this option.
Usyk’s Titles at Risk If He Fails to Compete
Currently holding the unified titles of WBC, WBA Super, and IBF heavyweight champion, Usyk could face losing one of these prestigious belts if he does not follow through with the mandated fight against Kabael. This could mark a significant shift in the heavyweight landscape, placing Usyk’s status as champion in jeopardy.
Potential Outcomes if Usyk is Stripped of His Title
If Usyk is indeed stripped of his championship, it remains unclear whether Kabael would be elevated directly to the position of regular WBC heavyweight champion or if he would be required to compete for the vacant title. Such developments could reshape the competitive dynamics in the heavyweight division.
Sulaiman Remarks on Referee Decisions During Recent Bout
Sulaiman defended the actions of the referee, Mark Lyson, who was criticized for stopping the match against Verhoeven prematurely. He reminded that the referee’s primary responsibility is the safety of the fighters, emphasizing that the timing of the bout should not overshadow a fighter’s well-being.
Referee’s Role and Safety is Paramount in Boxing Matches
Sulaiman stressed the importance of the referee’s role in safeguarding fighters, stating, “The referee’s only concern is the safety of the players.” He indicated that the focus should be on the fighters’ health rather than the clock, and he defended Lyson’s decision during the heated match. According to Sulaiman, the referee possesses a unique perspective, observing the fighters’ conditions and making split-second decisions crucial for their safety.
