Crossover fight for heavyweight world title is official

Since then, the 24-0 Ukrainian has been targeting a mouthwatering clash with Deontay Wilder.

‘The Bronze Bomber’ decided to fight Derek Chisora instead, so Usyk has picked an opponent out of left field for his return to the ring.

Oleksandr Usyk to fight Rico Verhoeven

Rico Verhoeven was confirmed to be Oleksandr Usyk’s next opponent on Friday.

The legendary kickboxer walked away from his first sport after a dominant win at Glory 100 in June 2025.

Now, he’s set to fight Usyk for the WBC Heavyweight world title in Egypt on May 23.

“I spent twelve years as the undisputed heavyweight kickboxing champion and accomplished everything I set out to accomplish,” Verhoeven said in a press release. “But staying at the top for that long didn’t take away the hunger, it strengthened it.”

Usyk was respectful but realistic while reacting to his clash with Verhoeven for the first time.

“I truly respect people who reach the very top in their sport. Rico is one of them — a powerful athlete and a great champion,” he said “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!”

How high would Rico Verhoeven’s ceiling be in the UFC?

Let us know in the comments how you would book the Glory Kickboxing legend’s run inside the Octagon.

What is Rico Verhoeven’s boxing record?

Rico Verhoeven has amassed a 76-fight (66-10) kickboxing record to become one of the greatest fighters the sport has ever seen.

The 36-year-old knockout artist hasn’t had much time to succeed away from his chosen sport.

Verhoeven is 1-0 in professional boxing, but hasn’t competed since his debut win 12 years ago.

The Dutch icon knocked out Janos Finfera inside two rounds when they fought in April 2014.

Since then, Verhoeven has only stepped away from kickboxing for an MMA fight one year later.

That ended in another KO win, but Usyk is many levels above every opponent he has fought in any sport.

Verhoeven will be a massive underdog when he tries to take Usyk’s WBC belt later this year.