In BOXSPORT, the world-class heavyweight talks about his return to the ring in Germany in January 2026. Kabayel also gives an insight into the search for a suitable opponent, which is proving difficult.
Hello Agit, after you were very successful in your last three fights in Riyadh, your fans are now looking forward to your “homecoming” in Germany. You’re boxing on January 10 in Oberhausen in the Rudolf Weber Arena. How did this come about?
Initially, Düsseldorf was considered as the venue in connection with a possible broadcast of the fight on January 10 on RTL. The broadcaster approached us, for which I am very grateful, as we had a constructive exchange. But we couldn’t finalize a cooperation, so my team and I decided on a partnership with DAZN. This resulted in Oberhausen being a suitable location in the Ruhr region.
“I want it to be a great boxing event for my fans”
A fight on RTL would have achieved more TV coverage than on pay-per-view. What spoke in favor of DAZN as a partner?
You simply have to say that DAZN is pursuing a boxing vision and knows how the business works. Even if this partnership is now linked to pay-per-view, I see this as a way to make boxing bigger again in Germany. The overall package is just right, including the long-term nature, financial aspects and corresponding promotional measures that are made possible for us. We then agreed with DAZN on the date of January 10 and the Rudolf Weber Arena. Oberhausen, Düsseldorf – the Ruhrpott is small, there’s not much difference. The most important thing is
“In future, the big fights in Germany too”
You talk about long-term cooperation. What exactly does that mean?
We have been working together for three fights now. Each time, those responsible have kept their word and that has strengthened my decision. It wasn’t a decision against RTL, but a decision for DAZN. Head of Germany Alice Mascia explained to me that we will also be able to get the big fights here in Germany in the future and that she is prepared to finance them. Even against top boxers of a caliber like Anthony Joshua or Daniel Dubois. This all fits in with my personal vision of boxing. As I said, I really appreciate RTL’s efforts and hope that we might be able to organize an event together in the future. But at the moment the broadcaster can’t provide me with the necessary budget to make such fights in Germany possible.
How long does the partnership with DAZN last?
Initially about two fights. But I think that our cooperation …
Interview: Frank Schwantes
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