WBC Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk is set to defend his prestigious title against legendary kickboxer Rico Verhoeven on May 23rd in Giza, Egypt. This landmark event, staged near the iconic Pyramids of Giza, represents a unique crossover encounter between a reigning boxing champion and a celebrated kickboxing superstar.
Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven: The Matchup
Usyk currently reigns as the WBC heavyweight titleholder, having previously relinquished his WBO belt. Verhoeven, renowned as a former Glory Kickboxing champion, enters the boxing ring with minimal prior professional experience in the sport, boasting a single knockout victory from 2013. However, his extensive career includes over a decade of unparalleled dominance in the kickboxing world. The World Boxing Council has officially sanctioned this 12-round contest, which will proceed under standard boxing regulations and be broadcast live on DAZN.
Egypt was strategically chosen by promoters as the host nation for this high-profile event. Usyk characterized Verhoeven as a formidable athlete transitioning from a different combat sport. Verhoeven expressed his enthusiasm, viewing the bout as a prime opportunity to challenge his skills in boxing following a career in kickboxing where he amassed an impressive record of 66 wins from 76 contests.
The Ukrainian pugilist, Oleksandr Usyk, previously unified the heavyweight division by defeating Tyson Fury. His illustrious career also includes unifying cruiserweight titles and a notable victory over Tony Bellew in 2018. At 39 years old, Usyk has competed across numerous international venues, though this will mark his debut fight in North Africa.
Rico Verhoeven, 36, hails from the Netherlands and retired last autumn as kickboxing’s most decorated champion. This upcoming fight represents undoubtedly his most significant challenge to date within the boxing world.
This highly anticipated fight unfolds during a dynamic period for the heavyweight division. Daniel Dubois currently holds a mandatory challenger position with the WBC, while Anthony Joshua continues his recovery following recent setbacks. Usyk himself has hinted at a limited number of remaining fights before potential retirement. Notably, Saudi promoter Turki Alalshikh has been instrumental in facilitating several other high-profile matchups in recent times.
Further details regarding ticket availability and the undercard lineup are anticipated to be announced in the near future.
