Oleksandr Usyk will defend his WBC heavyweight world title against ex-kickboxing world champion, Rico Verhoeven on May 23 in Egypt.
Usyk was granted a voluntary defence of his WBC title and has opted to face Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza in an event run by Ring Magazine.
Verhoeven, 36, will fight as a professional boxer for the first time in 12 years and just the second time in his career when he faces the Ukrainian great.
The Dutchman is not even ranked in the top 15 of the WBC, but has been granted a maiden title shot.
Usyk became a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion when he knocked out Daniel Dubois in a rematch in July at Wembley Stadium, but relinquished the WBO belt now held by Fabio Wardley.
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“I truly respect people who reach the very top in their sport,” the 39-year-old said.
“Rico is one of them — a powerful athlete and a great champion.
“Being a champion isn’t just about belts. It’s about years of hard work, discipline, and belief.
“I respect his journey — he’s truly the King of Kickboxing. But this is boxing — a different game, with its own rules and its own kings.
“I’m ready and really looking forward to meeting him in the ring.
“It’s going to be a unique experience for both of us, and I know the fans are excited too. A big night is coming!”
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has already confirmed that he will mandate the unbeaten southpaw to face WBC interim champion, Agit Kabayel after his fight with the Dutchman.
Returning former world champion, Tyson Fury has already called for a third showdown with Usyk ahead of his comeback bout against Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11.
Verhoeven was linked with a February clash with Anthony Joshua, but plans were derailed after the former two-time heavyweight champion was involved in a crash in Nigeria in December, which left two of his close friends dead.
“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 the hunger, it strengthened it.
“I wasn’t looking for comfort, so I started looking for the highest challenge available in another world.
“Usyk is undisputed in boxing.
“That’s the kind of challenge that motivates me.
“Undisputed versus undisputed. The best facing the best.”
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