Usyk’s future became one of boxing’s biggest talking points after his controversial 11th-round victory over Rico Verhoeven in May. While some observers have called for a rematch with the decorated kickboxing champion, others believe the undefeated Ukrainian should fulfill his obligations as WBC heavyweight champion.
The former two-weight world champion argued that Kabayel deserves the next opportunity.
“If he’s going to stay active, then Kabayel deserves a title shot. You can’t just stay active and hold a world title hostage,” Malignaggi told Froch on Fighting. “If you’re going to be a champion, then you either have to be stripped or you have to accept your obligation.”
Malignaggi also questioned how much longer Usyk should continue to compete at the highest level, pointing to the reality of aging even for elite fighters.
“I think at this age it’s very, very difficult to maintain a championship level all the time when you’re a guy like Usyk,” Malignaggi said. “So that’s why I think he’s accomplished so much. Maybe retirement is the way. But if he’s going to retire, then retire.”
The comments come amid growing debate over the 39-year-old’s next move. Usyk has previously indicated that he intends to have only a limited number of fights left before retiring, but his latest performance has raised new questions about how long he can maintain the standards that made him a two-time undisputed champion.
Kabayel strengthened his case for a title shot with an impressive streak of victories that elevated him into mandatory position with the WBC. If Usyk chooses to continue as champion, the undefeated German now appears to be first in line.
According to Malignaggi, the issue leaves little room for debate. A champion either defends against the challenger he has to face or steps aside to move the division forward.
