Retired boxing superstar Terence Crawford has named Agit Kabayel as the opponent he hopes Oleksandr Usyk faces for his final career bout. This unexpected declaration, shared by Crawford on social media on Sunday, September 20, 2026, presents an alternative to the widely anticipated showdown between Usyk and Deontay Wilder.
Usyk, the 39-year-old unified champion, has made it clear he intends to retire after one more fight. Crawford’s intervention injects a fresh perspective into the ongoing discussion about who will share the ring with the Ukrainian phenom in his swansong.
Terence Crawford’s Pick for Usyk’s Farewell Fight
Terence Allan “Bud” Crawford, a formidable force in the sport before his 2025 retirement, publicly expressed his desire to see Oleksandr Usyk challenge Agit Kabayel. Crawford included this matchup in a list of dream fights he posted on X, positioning the recently-elevated WBC heavyweight world champion as a fitting adversary.
This suggestion from Crawford, a highly respected figure who amassed an undefeated professional record of 42 wins, including 31 knockouts, carries considerable weight. His endorsement signals a potential shift in the narrative around Usyk’s final opponent, moving away from the previously rumored Deontay Wilder.
Crawford, who secured 18 major world championships across five different weight classes, has consistently lauded Usyk’s abilities. He has often praised the Ukrainian, calling him the best heavyweight globally and a strong contender for the top spot in pound-for-pound rankings. Crawford’s consistent praise highlights a mutual respect between these two elite fighters.
Agit Kabayel: The Rising Challenger
Agit Kabayel, the 34-year-old German heavyweight, was upgraded to WBC world champion status back in June, according to reports. He is now in line for a shot at the WBC title, depending on how sanctioning bodies handle Usyk’s status as the unified champion.
Kabayel’s standing was solidified by his decisive sixth-round knockout victory over Zhilei Zhang. He is currently awaiting the announcement of his first title defense, which is expected to take place on home soil in Germany, though his initial opponent, Nelson Hysa, withdrew. A bout against Usyk would undoubtedly represent the pinnacle of Kabayel’s career.
Deontay Wilder: The Established Threat
Before Crawford’s recent comments, many observers widely expected Deontay Leshun “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder to be the man standing opposite Usyk for his final fight. Reports had even circulated about a potential March showdown between Wilder and Usyk in New York City.
Wilder, 40, is a former World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight world champion who successfully defended his title 10 times during his reign from 2015 to 2020. Known for his exceptional punching power, with a remarkable 95.55% knockout-to-win percentage, Wilder remains a formidable opponent. His most recent outing was a victory over Derek Chisora on April 4, 2026. Crawford’s future bouts often generate similar speculation.
Oleksandr Usyk’s Career Outlook
Oleksandr Usyk, aged 39, has explicitly stated his intention to retire from professional boxing after one more fight. This decision, confirmed in June and July 2026, marks the impending end of an illustrious career for the Ukrainian, who initially planned to fight until age 41. He holds an undefeated professional record of 25 wins and 0 losses.
Usyk is the unified champion, currently holding the WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight titles. His exceptional run includes being a former undisputed cruiserweight champion and a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion. Usyk’s impressive track record includes notable victories against Anthony Joshua twice, Tyson Fury twice, and Daniel Dubois. Usyk’s training methods have been a subject of interest to fans and analysts alike.
Implications for the Heavyweight Landscape
Crawford’s suggestion for an Agit Kabayel clash adds an intriguing layer to Usyk’s retirement plans. While Deontay Wilder remains a strong possibility, the backing of a figure like Crawford could sway public opinion and even Usyk’s team.
A fight against Kabayel would offer Usyk a chance to face a newly elevated contender, testing his skills against a fresh threat. This type of challenge might appeal to a fighter looking to solidify his legacy with one final, impactful performance. Crawford’s own career path, marked by careful opponent selection, highlights the importance of such strategic matchups.
The heavyweight division is currently in a state of anticipation with Usyk’s impending departure. His choice of opponent will not only define his farewell but also significantly influence the immediate future of the division, creating opportunities for rising stars and shaping future high-stakes heavyweight clashes.
What Lies Ahead for Usyk’s Final Bout
The boxing world now eagerly awaits Oleksandr Usyk’s definitive announcement regarding his final opponent. While the prospect of a high-profile clash against Deontay Wilder has been heavily discussed, Terence Crawford’s unexpected endorsement of Agit Kabayel has introduced an exciting new possibility.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Usyk and his team, who will weigh the various factors involved in crafting a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary career. Regardless of the opponent, Usyk’s final fight promises to be a landmark event for the sport, capping off a remarkable tenure.
