Agit Kabayel is set to step back inside the ring on February 22, 2025, facing Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This match is not just any fight; it's for the interim World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight title, which could pave Kabayel’s way for future championship opportunities.
Kabayel, the 32-year-old German boxer, holds an impressive unbeaten record of 25 wins, with 17 of those victories coming by knockout. His most recent triumphs against Arslanbek Makhmudov and Frank Sanchez showcased his rising star status within the heavyweight division. Kabayel himself expressed the significance of this fight, stating, "Of course, this is something big for me, and I am thankful to the WBC. But that's not my goal. I want gold, I want to become world champion." His determination is clear as he aims to capitalize on this opportunity and solidify his place among the elite heavyweights.
On the other side of the ring stands Zhilei Zhang, known as the giant of heavyweight boxing, towering at 1.98 meters tall and weighing 128 kilograms. Zhang, 41, boasts a professional record of 27 wins, two losses, and one draw, with 22 of his victories earned via knockout. After bouncing back from defeat with notable performances—including a knockout win against former champion Deontay Wilder—Zhang also seeks the title glory, hoping to secure his place among the boxing greats.
The stakes for both fighters are high. A victory for Kabayel would not only place him firmly among the contenders for the heavyweight title but potentially position him for future matchups against well-renowned fighters like Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua. Kabayel shared his aspirations, stating, "My goal is to fight for the world championship in Germany. At the latest then, the people of Germany should give boxing the attention it deserves." His ambition speaks to his desire not just for personal achievement but also to revive the sport's prominence within Germany.
This fight, which is part of the larger boxing event titled "The Last Crescendo," features seven high-stakes bouts, with Kabayel versus Zhang being one of the highlights. Kabayel’s match is set to start at approximately 18:15 local time, marking it as the second fight on the card before the evening culminates with the main event featuring Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol fighting for the unified light heavyweight championship.
For eager fans hoping to watch this thrilling battle, it will be available exclusively through the DAZN streaming platform as part of its Pay-Per-View service, priced at €25.99. To access this fight, viewers must have an active DAZN subscription, allowing them to purchase the PPV event seamlessly. This model of broadcasting boxing has rapidly gained popularity, enabling fans to witness high-caliber matchups from the comfort of their homes.
The combatants are preparing for a night filled with power punches and relentless strategies, each vying for supremacy within the heavyweight ranks. Given the history and potential legacy at stake, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Riyadh as Kabayel and Zhang enter the ring, promising not only skill but entertainment for boxing aficionados worldwide.
With fans eagerly awaiting the action, both fighters understand the significance of this battle and the reward it brings—a step closer to championship gold and recognition at the highest level of the sport. The anticipation is palpable, and the boxing community prepares for what could very well be one of 2025's most memorable matchups.