Kevin Lerena Targets Usyk and Benavidez After Winning Cruiserweight Belt

Kevin Lerena has put a two-fight losing run behind him and is already looking toward the biggest names in boxing. The South African defeated Scotland’s Scott Forrest by unanimous decision at Sandton Convention Centre, claiming the vacant WBC International cruiserweight title. The judges scored the 10-round bout 97-92, 97-92 and 98-91. Lerena’s victory was sealed with a dramatic moment in the final round: with 50 seconds remaining, he dropped Forrest, who managed to rise before the count ended. The performance also answered questions about Lerena’s stamina after he shed 16 kilograms to return to cruiserweight. According to the report, Lerena had spent five months preparing for the challenge. His latest win ended a difficult spell that included back-to-back defeats while he was competing at bridgerweight. He said the sacrifices involved in making the lower weight had been worth it, and the new belt could help him move up the WBC world rankings. Speaking to SA Boxing Talk after the bout, the 34-year-old said he was not looking to avoid difficult opponents. He named undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk as a potential rival if Usyk returns to the cruiserweight division. “If we ever get the chance to dance, so be it,” Lerena said, according to the article. He also pointed to American fighter David Benavidez, describing him as a ferocious opponent and saying a meeting would show where he stands. Lerena said he wants major fights and strong opportunities for his family, adding that he has never turned down a challenge. The report presents the Forrest win as a reset for the South African, who is now seeking to turn his new title into a route back among the division’s leading contenders.