Undefeated Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the WBC, WBA, and IBF belts in the heavyweight division, shared his thoughts on the upcoming match with legendary Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven.
"I sincerely respect people who have reached the top in their sport. Rico is one of them; he is a powerful athlete and a great champion. Being a champion is not only about holding titles. It involves years of hard work, discipline, and faith. I respect his journey—he is the true king of kickboxing.
But this is boxing—a different game with its own rules and its own kings. I am ready and eagerly awaiting meeting Rico in the ring. We are in for a unique experience, and I know the fans will be thrilled. A great night is approaching," Usyk said.
The fight is scheduled for May 23 in Giza, Egypt, at a unique location near the famous pyramids. The WBC World Championship title, held by Usyk, will be at stake. The broadcast will be organized by the DAZN platform, and the event has already been named Glory in Giza.
Verhoeven, with an outstanding record of 66–10 in kickboxing, as well as one victory in professional boxing and mixed martial arts, will step into the boxing ring for the first time in many years.
