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Cristiano Ronaldo message left heavyweight star stunned ahead of major bout
Agit Kabayel has opened up his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, revealing that he initially thought he had been duped by the star.
The German heavyweight defends his WBC interim crown against Damian Knyba this weekend in Overhausen, live worldwide on DAZN.
For Kabayel, it marks a first fight on home soil since 2023, during which he has established himself with a string of key victories in Riyadh.
It is there that the star first crossed paths with Ronaldo, the legendary Portugal superstar who captains Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr.
The pair were pictured together amid Kabayel's victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov over two years ago, where the footballer was a guest.
Now, the fighter has explained how their paths came to cross, revealing that he attempted to play a prank that ultimately paid dividends.
"I jokingly texted him and then highlighted it so it looked like he had texted me, and then I showed it to my friends," Kabayel told DAZN.
"Then when I came out of physiotherapy, I looked at my phone and I had three thumbs-up emojis from Cristiano Ronaldo. I was so stunned.
"He texted me before the fight against Frank Sanchez [in 2024]. I asked if he would be there, and he said yes. I was shocked he replied.
"We were warming up before the weigh-in when a message on Instagram popped up from him. I immediately thought this has to be fake!
"After the fight, I walked past him and shook his hand. He said congratulations and wished me continued success. I thanked him for watching."
Both Kabayel and Ronaldo will have their sights set on major prizes this year, with the former hopeful he can push on to secure a full title.
The latter meanwhile is expected to lead Portugal at the FIFA World Cup, as he chases the biggest honour of his career, and one of the only ones to elude him.
Watch Kabayel vs. Knyba with a DAZN subscription
January starts with a heavyweight bang as Agit Kabayel takes the next steps towards a world title shot as he face Damian Knyba this Saturday, January 10, exclusively on DAZN. Watch with a subscription, monthly and annual options available.
