Oleksandr Usyk’s next title fight won’t be against an opponent many were expecting.
Ring Magazine has announced that Usyk is set to put his WBC heavyweight title at stake against elite kickboxer Rico Verhoeven. Much had been made over Verhoeven’s combat sports ventures outside of kickboxing, but few could’ve anticipated a championship bout against Usyk.
In a press release, Usyk discussed the unique challenge and made it clear he’s aware of Verhoeven’s accolades.
“I truly respect people who reach the very top in their sport,” Usyk said. “Rico is one of them – a powerful athlete and a great champion. He’s truly the king of Kickboxing. Being a champion isn’t just about belts. I’m ready and looking forward to meeting him in the ring. It’s going to be a unique experience for both of us, a big night is coming!”
Verhoeven shared some words, expressing his excitement over sharing the ring with Usyk.
“I spent twelve years as the undisputed heavyweight kickboxing champion and accomplished everything I set out to accomplish,” Verhoeven said. “But staying at the top for that long didn’t take away from the hunger, it strengthened it. Usyk is the undisputed in boxing. That’s the kind of challenge that motivated me. Undisputed versus undisputed. The best versus the best.”
The Usyk vs. Verhoeven clash is scheduled to take place on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. The fight will be streamed live on DAZN.
Usyk’s most recent fight was back in July 2025. He knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round of their rematch to capture the IBF heavyweight title. In the process, Usyk retained the WBC, WBA, WBO, and The Ring titles. He has since vacated the WBO gold.
As for Verhoeven, his last bout took place in June 2025 under kickboxing rules. He defeated Artem Vakhitov via unanimous decision to retain the Glory Heavyweight Championship. Verhoeven vacated the title and ended his run with Glory Kickboxing.
What do you make of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven? Sound off in the comments below.