Usyk to defend WBC crown against Verhoeven in historic Giza showdown

Two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is set to return to the ring in May, defending his WBC heavyweight title against former kickboxing ruler Rico Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Sport360NG reports.

The bout, scheduled for May 23 and branded “Glory in Giza” by organisers, will see the Ukrainian star compete for the first time since his stoppage victory over Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July. Usyk currently holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight belts and remains unbeaten in 24 professional contests.

Verhoeven, 36, steps into a boxing ring for the first time since 2014. The Dutchman enjoyed a decorated kickboxing career, compiling 76 fights with 66 wins and spending over a decade as the sport’s dominant heavyweight champion before announcing his departure last November.

Usyk welcomed the challenge but made clear the distinction between the two disciplines.

“I truly respect people who reach the very top in their sport,” Usyk 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. A big night is coming.”

Verhoeven framed the contest as a clash between champions from different combat codes.

“I spent 12 years as the undisputed heavyweight kickboxing champion and achieved everything I set out to accomplish,” he said. “But staying at the top for that long didn’t reduce the hunger, it strengthened it.

“I wasn’t looking for comfort. I was searching for the highest challenge in another world. Usyk is undisputed in boxing. That’s the level that motivates me, undisputed versus undisputed.”

Questions Over Competitive Balance

While the location promises a spectacular setting against one of the world’s most iconic backdrops, the competitive narrative has drawn scrutiny.

The fight represents a sanctioned world heavyweight title defence rather than a crossover exhibition, raising eyebrows given Verhoeven’s limited boxing experience. Comparisons have been made to high-profile crossover bouts in recent years, though few have carried the stakes of a recognised championship contest.

Usyk, widely regarded as one of boxing’s most disciplined and technically gifted operators, has faced criticism from some quarters for bypassing other established heavyweight contenders in favour of the crossover encounter. However, the unpredictability of heavyweight boxing, underscored by past upsets involving debutants, ensures intrigue remains.

On May 23, beneath the ancient skyline of Giza, boxing’s reigning champion will test his dominance against a decorated fighter seeking to conquer a new arena.