A behind-the-scenes look at the training regimen of WBC Interim Heavyweight Champion Agit Kabayel
Boxing champions aren't born, they're made - through hard, strategic training. While fans typically only see the spectacular fights, the actual work that leads to these successes often remains hidden. A recent interview now provides insights into how WBC Interim Heavyweight Champion Agit Kabayel structures his training.
The Training System
Kabayel's training plan follows a well-thought-out system with clear division of responsibilities. A specialized strength coach handles the fundamental power development. Head coach Sükrü Aksu, meanwhile, focuses on conditioning and boxing-specific strength training.
The training occurs in structured units: "10 minutes on the stepper, 4 minutes running, 10 minutes jump rope, upper body warm-up with boxing exercises," explains Aksu. This warm-up phase lasts about 40 minutes before moving on to the heavy bag or pad work.
Measured Endurance Training
For endurance work, Aksu relies on moderate but effective distances: "Agit does long runs. When the weather is nice, we do 8, 9 kilometers. That's enough." This is supplemented with challenging hill runs, though the trainer emphasizes not overdoing it.
Special focus is placed on heavy bag work: "We work a lot on the heavy bag. That's strength, stamina, conditioning." This combination of different training stimuli forms the foundation for Kabayel's physical condition.
Less Sparring, More Technique
Particularly interesting is Aksu's philosophy on sparring - contrary to many traditional approaches in boxing: "I do little sparring. I've taken enough hits to the head myself - it hurts!"
Instead, he prefers controlled partner exercises where punches are thrown but not landed. This allows boxers to practice and refine techniques without fear. As a contrast, Aksu mentions heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who reportedly does 14-15 rounds of sparring: "That doesn't happen with me."
His reasoning is sound: "If you're constantly taking hits to the head, you can't execute in the fight because you're afraid." An approach that obviously bears fruit with Kabayel.
The 3.5-Minute Method
Another distinctive feature of Aksu's training philosophy is his time management. He consistently works with 3.5-minute training rounds followed by 30-second breaks: "I do everything 3.5. Everything I do: 3.5 minutes." This specific timing appears to be a key element of his success formula.
Looking Ahead
While Agit Kabayel's next fight date has not yet been announced, excitement is building among fans. After his impressive rise to WBC Interim Heavyweight Champion, his next appearance is highly anticipated. Until then, Kabayel will continue working according to his trainer's proven method – with targeted training that balances strength, endurance, and technique in a successful equilibrium.
Source: This information comes from a two-part interview by BOXPODCAST (https://www.youtube.com/@boxpodcast) with Kabayel's coach Sükrü Aksu.
The relevant portion of the interview is available at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO2yihKhfm4
