Kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven ignores UFC to fight Usyk for boxing title at the Pyramids

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Rico and Usyk promote a boxing match. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/RingMagazine

Boxing continues to delight fans by providing another explosive superfight in 2026. One of the best kickboxers, Rico Verhoeven, will compete for the WBC (World Boxing Council) heavyweight title against champion Oleksandr Usyk on May 23rd, in a grand event to be held in Egypt, more precisely at the Pyramids of Giza.

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The long-awaited encounter was announced by the traditional magazine 'The Ring' this Friday (27). The fight pits two of the biggest names in combat sports history against each other. Verhoeven was so successful in kickboxing as Glory champion that he caught the UFC's eye to debut in the current season. However, the Dutchman, training partner of Tom Aspinall , ignored the organization and decided to take on an even bigger challenge. In turn, Usyk is one of the most feared boxers. The Ukrainian is a multi-champion and is undefeated in the traditional modality.

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Fighters by Usyk and Verhoeven

Oleksandr Usyk, 39, is one of the biggest names in boxing. The Ukrainian began his career in the noble art in 2013 and has built a victorious career. The athlete won the gold medal at the London Olympics (ENG) in 2012, and world titles in the main boxing organizations. In the ring, 'The Cat' has fought 24 times and won them all, 15 by knockout. His main victories were over Anthony Joshua (twice), Daniel Dubois (twice) and Tyson Fury (twice).

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Rico Verhoeven, 36, made his mark in kickboxing, remaining undefeated for 11 years as Glory heavyweight champion. The Dutchman began his career in the sport in 2005 and shocked the world by relinquishing his title in November. In kickboxing, he amassed a record of 66 wins and 10 losses. His main victories were over Artem Vakhitov, Badr Hari (twice), Daniel Ghita (twice), Gokhan Saki, Peter Aerts, and Sergei Kharitonov.