In a bold statement that has sent ripples through the heavyweight division, former cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie has called on the World Boxing Council (WBC) to enforce Agit Kabayel’s mandatory challenge for the heavyweight title. This comes amidst speculation that current champion Oleksandr Usyk may delay his mandatory defense due to a planned bout with kickboxer Rico Verhoeven.
Okolie, who is currently the WBC’s number one contender, has expressed his belief that Usyk will eventually vacate the WBC title. This, he argues, would open the door for a showdown between himself and Kabayel for the vacant belt. “I have a three-point plan,” Okolie stated, “and it involves me becoming the heavyweight champion. If Usyk doesn’t defend his title against Kabayel, then the WBC must enforce the mandatory challenge.”
The British boxer’s ambitions don’t stop there. Okolie has also set his sights on a future unification bout with fellow Brit Daniel Dubois. However, before that can happen, Okolie must first overcome Tony Yoka in a highly anticipated bout scheduled for April in Paris. “I’m focused on Yoka right now,” Okolie said, “but I’m also looking ahead to the possibilities that lie beyond.”
Okolie’s confidence in his plan is palpable. He has publicly backed Dubois to defeat Fabio Wardley in their upcoming WBO heavyweight title clash, which is set to take place in May. “I believe Dubois will come out on top,” Okolie predicted, “and that sets up a potential unification bout between us down the line.”
Meanwhile, Usyk’s planned defense against Verhoeven has raised questions about the future of his IBF and WBA titles. Promoter Kalle Sauerland has been lobbying for Derek Chisora to fight for Usyk’s IBF title, while Murat Gassiev seeks clarity about the WBA title. Despite the uncertainty, one thing is clear: Lawrence Okolie is ready to seize any opportunity that comes his way.
As the heavyweight division continues to heat up, all eyes will be on Okolie’s upcoming bout with Yoka. A victory there could set the stage for a thrilling chapter in the British boxer’s quest for heavyweight glory. With his sights set on Kabayel and a potential unification bout with Dubois, Okolie is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division.
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