Yoka Explains Why Kabayel Turned Down the Fight

French heavyweight Tony Yoka explained why Agit Kabayel refused to face him in the ring. Instead, the WBC interim champion will fight Polish contender Damian Knyba on January 10 in Germany.

“He refused because he’s in a position right now that he doesn’t want to lose. He’s ranked No.1 with the WBC and he’s thinking: ‘Okay, if Usyk vacates the title — I become world champion. If Usyk wants to fight, then I’ll face him.’

You understand? Instead of saying: ‘This is my position and I’m going to defend it,’ they want an easier fight. And believe me, he’s earned it. He beat Makhmudov, Sanchez, Zhilei. He’s never turned down a single fight. But right now he’s in this position and wants to stay safe,” Yoka said.