Matchroom CEO on Klitschko's Return: "The German Market Is a Sleeping Giant"

Frank Smith, the CEO of Matchroom Boxing, has weighed in on which boxing market would be the best option for a potential ring return of legendary heavyweight Wladimir Klitschko.

Smith believes the revitalization of the German boxing scene creates the perfect backdrop for such a historic event.

“I would really love to see the German public. Waking up that sleeping giant that Germany has been for so long. The atmosphere, the energy that tore the roof off the stadium in Oberhausen a few weeks ago.

If Usyk and Kabayel fight somewhere in Düsseldorf, in a big stadium for 50,000-60,000 spectators, like the one where the Klitschkos used to fight, that would be incredible.

There have also been rumors that Wladimir Klitschko is coming out of retirement. I think the German market would be really interesting. And if Kabayel can keep winning, it will be a fantastic place for Queensberry and boxing in general. Germany is a huge football and boxing country, and it has been quiet for a while. It’s good to see it coming alive again,” Smith said.

Agit Kabayel recently fought in Germany, knocking out Damian Knyba, and hinted at his desire to face Oleksandr Usyk.

The potential return of Wladimir Klitschko has been discussed repeatedly. The most recent rumors linked him to a bout against Daniel Dubois, though organizers never reached a concrete agreement.