Deontay Wilder is long past his prime and not part of Agit Kabayel’s immediate plans, according to Bernd Boente, who has told World Boxing News exclusively that the WBC heavyweight champion is targeting unification fights in 2027.
Wilder remains a possible opponent for Kabayel, but Boente believes the former champion’s best days are behind him despite his continued marketability.
However, the American’s position in the WBC rankings could eventually force the issue, particularly if his proposed showdown with Oleksandr Usyk fails to materialize.
Boente brings considerable heavyweight experience to his assessment, having managed both Klitschko brothers during their world championship careers. He now works as a pundit for DAZN DACH, covering major heavyweight fights including Daniel Dubois vs. Fabio Wardley II and Agit Kabayel vs. Nelson Hysa.
WBN previously reported that Wilder had moved into contention for another shot at the green and gold belt, potentially giving him a route back to the championship he held for five years.
With Tyson Fury committed to facing Anthony Joshua and Frank Sanchez pursuing the IBF championship, Wilder could become the leading available contender once the WBC rankings are settled.
Boente on Wilder’s Decline
Asked whether Wilder remains a realistic target for Kabayel, Boente made clear that Queensberry and the champion’s team have bigger ambitions.
“Queensberry and Agit’s team are determined to stage unification bouts—and further events in a stadium—next year,” Boente exclusively told WBN. “Deontay would only be an option if that plan falls through.
“His name still carries significant weight, and as a former champion, he remains highly marketable—even though, as evidenced by his clear defeats against Zhang and Parker or in his last fight against Chisora, he is long past his prime.”
Wilder’s proposed fight with Usyk remains unresolved, but a number one position with the WBC could become increasingly important if that contest falls through.
A high ranking does not automatically guarantee an immediate mandatory challenge. However, Kabayel could eventually find himself ordered to face Wilder if the ‘Bronze Bomber’ remains the leading available contender.
That would leave the German champion with a decision to make over his planned unification fights.
Germany’s Heavyweight Revival
Kabayel became Germany’s first recognized heavyweight world champion since Max Schmeling in 1932 when he was elevated to full WBC champion following Usyk’s decision to vacate.
Boente wants Kabayel to build on that achievement and restore Germany’s position as a major destination for heavyweight boxing.
“I hope that Agit and Queensberry continue to stage many major fight nights in Germany and revive the sleeping giant that has been dormant since the Klitschko era: ‘big-time boxing in Germany.’
“Agit is the first German World Heavyweight Champion since the legendary Max Schmeling and Agit has great potential both inside and outside the ring.”
Boente also believes Kabayel belongs among the division’s leading heavyweights behind Usyk, alongside Daniel Dubois and Filip Hrgovic.
“To me, behind the giant of our time, Oleksandr Usyk, the likes of Agit Kabayel, Daniel Dubois, and Filip Hrgovic represent the absolute pinnacle of the heavyweight division. All three have very different fighting styles.
“I hope they face each other in unification bouts next year so that we can celebrate another undisputed champion following Oleksandr Usyk. And of course, I would like it to be Agit Kabayel.”
Kabayel must first get past Nelson Hysa on November 28, but Boente has made clear that another major stadium event and unification fights are the priorities.
Wilder may not feature in those plans, although his WBC position could eventually leave Kabayel with little choice but to consider him.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 16 years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
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