Rico Verhoeven has received a world ranking with the WBC following his controversial loss to Oleksandr Usyk last month.
Verhoeven was ahead on the scorecards when he was halted by Usyk in the 11th round of their WBC heavyweight world title fight at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
The kickboxing legend, who was fighting for just the second time as a professional boxer, was stopped far too early in many people’s eyes by referee Mark Lyson, who waved off the contest despite him making it to his feet following a heavy knockdown.
WBC President, Mauricio Sulaiman told Pro Boxing Fans post-fight that the Dutchman would receive a ranking and he has honoured his word, by placing the 37-year-old at eight.
The ranking puts him one place behind former long-reigning WBC heavyweight titlist, Deontay Wilder and three positions below former unified champion, Anthony Joshua.
For a rematch to take place, Usyk will have to relinquish his WBC crown, with the governing body ordering him to defend his title against interim champion, Agit Kabayel.
Verhoeven, who fought as a professional boxer for the first time since 2014, has called for a rematch with the Ukrainian.
“100% [I want a rematch],” he told Ring Magazine.
“His Excellency [Turki Alalshikh] told me he wants to see the rematch.
“He said ‘you were ahead, you were winning and then the this happened, the referee jumps in. It doesn’t make sense.’
“Let’s see what happens.”
Usyk faced off with Kabayel in the ring after beating Verhoeven.
The German maintained his lofty position with the WBC with a third round stoppage over Damian Knyba in January and called for a clash with Usyk in Germany.
“I am the number one contender,” the 33-year-old told reporters including Pro Boxing Fans.
“I think this makes sense
“Kabayel vs Usyk in Germany.
“I’ve waited so long for this situation.
“I’m ready for the next big challenge.”
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