In an unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight boxing champion, is set to face kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven in a historic crossover bout. The fight, scheduled for May 23 at the iconic Giza pyramid complex in Egypt, promises to be a spectacle unlike any other.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) has thrown its full support behind this unique event, with WBC president stating, “The WBC fully supports this crossover fight. It will be a WBC ‘special event’ and we will create an unbelievable belt featuring the elements of the Pyramids of Egypt. We have full respect for Rico as a legendary kickboxing heavyweight champion.”
This bout will headline a Ring magazine card and will be broadcast live on DAZN, although it has not yet been specified whether it will be part of the DAZN subscription or a separate pay-per-view (PPV). While Usyk holds the WBA and IBF heavyweight world titles, only his WBC strap will be on the line in this special event.
Verhoeven, known for his dominance in the kickboxing world with a record of 66-10 and 21 wins by knockout, made his professional boxing debut back in 2014 with a victory over Janos Finfera. However, this fight against Usyk, a boxer who has achieved undisputed status in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, will be a monumental challenge.
In a recent press release, Usyk expressed his respect for Verhoeven, stating, “I truly respect people who reach the very top in their sport. 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.”
Verhoeven, equally respectful and eager for the challenge, responded, “I spent twelve years as the undisputed heavyweight kickboxing champion and accomplished everything I set out to accomplish. 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.”
This historic bout promises to be a clash of titans, blending the worlds of boxing and kickboxing in a way never seen before. Fans around the globe are eagerly anticipating what is sure to be an unforgettable night of combat sports.
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