Heavyweight Great Oleksandr Usyk Defends Controversial Title Defense Against Kickboxing Star Rico Verhoeven

Unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk has firmly defended his decision to challenge conventional wisdom and face kickboxing sensation Rico Verhoeven on 23 May at the foot of the pyramids of Giza, Egypt.

The bout has divided the boxing world. Verhoeven, 37, has competed professionally as a boxer only once — a stoppage win in 2014 against an opponent with no prior victories. By contrast, Usyk, 39, is an Olympic gold medallist, former undisputed cruiserweight ruler, and two-time undisputed heavyweight champion who remains unbeaten across 24 professional fights.

Despite the stark contrast in credentials, Usyk insists the fight represents a personal challenge he is entitled to pursue on his own terms. "One time I want to do what I want, not what I need," the Ukrainian said at a London press conference. "A lot of time I do what other people need. You have to box this person, or this, or this. I say okay. Now I do what I want."

Speaking of his opponent, Usyk was measured but respectful. "For me it's a challenge. Rico is a great guy, a dangerous guy."

The fight carries the WBC world heavyweight title, which has drawn particular scrutiny from critics who view the mismatch as demeaning to the belt. Verhoeven arrives with a fearsome reputation in kickboxing — 66 wins from 76 fights — but is essentially a boxing novice at elite level.

Verhoeven himself cut a composed figure at the press conference, revealing the original concept was a clash between two undisputed champions. "Our idea was undisputed versus undisputed. That's how this fight came about. It's something very special."

Usyk was in playful mood when asked about the secret to his remarkable longevity. "Hard training and good pasta — double portion," he joked.

Looking ahead, the Ukrainian champion outlined an ambitious roadmap. He expects Anthony Joshua to become the next undisputed heavyweight champion and stated he would step aside to allow Joshua and Tyson Fury to finally negotiate their long-discussed bout. Before that, Usyk plans to face the winner of Fabio Wardley versus Daniel Dubois, then potentially a third fight with Fury.

Verhoeven was previously scheduled to meet Joshua before the Briton's car accident last year, which claimed the lives of two of his friends. He has since sparred with Fury and trained alongside UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.

The venue — set against the ancient pyramids of Giza — is among the most striking in boxing history. Organisers have confirmed the event will proceed despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East.