Frank Rondel
Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk is set to challenge world-renowned kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven for the WBC title on May 23 in Giza, Egypt, according to customreceipt.com. The matchup is already being described as one of the most high-profile combat sports events of the year, fueled by Usyk’s championship status and Verhoeven’s long-standing dominance in kickboxing.
This fight marks the next significant chapter in Usyk’s career following his striking victory over Daniel Dubois. In that bout, Usyk secured a fifth-round knockout, which was later recognized as the best knockout of 2025. Known for his exceptional technique, mobility, and tactical intelligence, Usyk has repeatedly neutralized physically stronger opponents. The upcoming encounter, however, presents a unique challenge due to the contrasting disciplines of the two fighters.
Legends collide where legends were built 🥊🦂
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) February 27, 2026
On May 23, under the shadows of the ancient giants, Oleksandr Usyk takes on Rico Verhoeven at the iconic Pyramids of Giza 🔥
Glory in Giza | May 23 | LIVE on DAZN
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Rico Verhoeven, born on April 10, 1989, in Bergen op Zoom, North Brabant, Netherlands, began training in Kyokushin karate under his father, Jos Verhoeven, a black belt, from the age of six before transitioning to kickboxing. His remarkable physical attributes allowed him to compete against adult fighters by age sixteen, shaping a style characterized by toughness, endurance, and discipline.
Verhoeven started his professional kickboxing career in 2004 and gradually established an international presence. In 2008, he signed with K-1 and claimed victory in Hawaii against Japanese opponent Koichi Watanabe. He later competed with It’s Showtime, defeating notable contenders, and joined Glory in 2012. By 2014, he captured the heavyweight championship, which he has maintained consistently over the years.
Aside from kickboxing, Verhoeven has also tested professional boxing and mixed martial arts. In 2014, he won a boxing match by knockout, and in 2015, he debuted in MMA with a technical knockout victory. Nevertheless, kickboxing has remained his primary discipline, keeping him at the top of the heavyweight rankings since 2014. This extensive experience makes him a formidable adversary for any professional boxer.
The Usyk-Verhoeven clash represents a collision of two distinct fighting schools: classical boxing versus elite kickboxing. Although the bout will follow boxing rules, Verhoeven’s physical strength and years of high-level practice could influence the pace of the fight. At the same time, Usyk brings greater experience in professional boxing at the elite level. This blend of factors creates the central intrigue for the May 23 showdown in Giza.
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