Rico Verhoeven and the WBC picture
Kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven delivered a stunning boxing display this past weekend against heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk in only his second professional bout. It was nearly the biggest upset boxing has ever seen.
It was agreed beforehand by the WBC and reigning champion Oleksandr Usyk that he would be allowed one voluntary defence. However, after that, he must defend his crown against WBC interim belt holder Agit Kabayel later this year.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman reinforced the point that Agit Kabayel is next in line to challenge the Ukrainian. The title fight could take place in Germany or Istanbul.
Rico Verhoeven WBC ranking boost
Following the controversial stoppage, fans have pushed the idea that Rico Verhoeven deserves an immediate rematch. That came after he gave Usyk one of his toughest professional challenges to date.
The WBC and Mauricio Sulaiman have faced backlash from boxing fans for not ordering the rematch. However, Sulaiman revealed that Verhoeven can expect to receive a high ranking from the organisation.
“I believe the right thing would be that Rico is going to get ranked for sure by the WBC.”
“And he deserves to fight for the title soon.”
“It’s a matter for the ratings committee, but I would say top, top, top, top.”
Zachs’s Corner
I believe Kabayel’s title shot is overdue and fully deserved. He should now have the opportunity to prove to himself and the fans whether he has what it takes to beat the best of this generation.
Whilst I believe Rico deserves a rematch, I only see it going in Usyk’s favour the second time around. It would likely happen in much quicker fashion too. That is, of course, if Usyk can first get past Kabayel.
Usyk has now had 11 rounds to figure Rico out and download his style. Whilst the awkwardness played a massive role in Rico’s initial success against the pound-for-pound number two, I think the surprise factor has now faded.
Because of that, I do not believe Usyk would struggle with the unknown in the same way again.
Finally, yes, I believe Verhoeven brought Usyk his most uncomfortable match-up to date. However, is that enough for a boxer with a 1-1 record to move near the top of the rankings in boxing’s most famous organisation?