Usyk issued strict WBC ultimatum regarding mandatory heavyweight rival
The unified heavyweight champion has been granted permission to take a voluntary bout next as he looks to stay active.
However, boxing authorities have made it clear that the Ukrainian southpaw cannot avoid his mandatory obligations indefinitely.
Sulaiman insists on Kabayel clash
Sulaiman insisted that while the 38-year-old can choose his immediate opponent, the path thereafter is set in stone.
Agit Kabayel, the unbeaten German heavyweight, is currently the mandatory challenger for the green and gold belt.
“Kabayel was not available, because he had a fight scheduled in January,” Sulaiman told boxing analyst Chris Mannix.
“So, [Usyk] requested a voluntary title defence, which is very customary.”
“He was given that opportunity, and he must fight the interim champion next. That’s the ruling.”
The 33-year-old challenger secured his position with a stoppage victory over Zhilei Zhang last February.
He further solidified his standing on the periphery of the world title scene by knocking out Damian Knyba last month.
Wilder showdown hopes fade
The ruling comes amidst uncertainty regarding Usyk’s opponent for the approved voluntary defence.
The two-weight undisputed king had reportedly targeted a high-profile showdown with Deontay Wilder.
Usyk’s manager, Egis Klimas, had previously identified the ‘Bronze Bomber’ as a key target, noting the fight would likely take place in the United States.
However, those plans collapsed after the American was paired with veteran Derek Chisora for a clash at London’s O2 Arena on 4 April.
“Look, Usyk came to us recently to fight,” Wilder’s manager Shelly Finkel revealed.
“We didn’t know if that could happen, and we were on a trajectory to fight Chisora.”
With Wilder unavailable, the identity of the opponent for Usyk’s interim bout remains unclear.
British contender Fabio Wardley had emerged as a potential option after defeating Joseph Parker to win the WBO interim title in October.
Regardless of who stands in the opposite corner next, the WBC has ensured that Kabayel will be waiting in the wings.