In a surprising move that has the boxing world buzzing, undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is stepping out of the traditional contender queue. The Ukrainian maestro has announced his next fight will be against Rico Verhoeven, the legendary Dutch kickboxing champion, on May 23rd at the historic Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Addressing the inevitable questions about the unconventional matchup, the undefeated Usyk offered a simple, powerful explanation: "One time I want to do what I want." At 39, the fighter known for his technical brilliance and footwork is embracing a challenge that intrigues him personally, even as established boxers like WBC interim champion Agit Kabayel await their shot.
While Usyk's WBA and IBF titles won't be on the line for this 12-round bout, he made it clear he's not taking his opponent lightly. "(Verhoeven's) a great guy, a dangerous guy," Usyk stated. "A lot of time I do what other people demand... now, I do what I want."
The fight presents a classic clash of styles and physiques. Verhoeven, a towering 6'5" and roughly 265 pounds, is a "naturally born heavyweight" and a longtime king of kickboxing. He promises to bring a unique puzzle to the ring. "I’m going to bring kickboxing angles, bring a different type of puzzle," he said, confident that his power can change the fight. "When I land my best punch on him, of course he will go down."
Usyk, who typically fights under 230 pounds, has built a legendary career by outsmarting and outmaneuvering larger foes, including victories over Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. Dismissing the size disparity, Usyk pointed to his proven formula: "Hard training and good pasta — good pasta, double portion. It's magic."
In a final piece of fight-week intrigue, Usyk was asked for his prediction on a potential long-awaited clash between British rivals Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. The champion didn't hesitate: "AJ win." It's a bold call that adds another layer of discussion as the boxing community turns its eyes toward Egypt for a truly unique heavyweight spectacle.