Despite all the speculations and statements, the WBC world heavyweight title will indeed be on the line in the upcoming fight between undefeated Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk and Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven.
The fight is scheduled for May 23 and will take place in a unique location — at the majestic pyramids of Giza in Egypt, promising to make the event not only a sports spectacle but also a cultural and historical one.
The official approval came from the Council of the World Boxing Council (WBC) Governors, who, after a comprehensive analysis of the situation, gave the green light to this crossover match.
“After thorough consideration of the situation, the World Boxing Council's board of governors decided to sanction the voluntary defense of the WBC world heavyweight title by Oleksandr Usyk in a fight against the legendary kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven. The transition from kickboxing to boxing is not unprecedented. Many athletes who practiced Muay Thai boxing have successfully transitioned to professional boxing and fought for WBC titles at the beginning of their boxing careers. This decision by the WBC is in accordance with the organization's rules and regulations. The Pyramids of Egypt will lend historical significance to this event. Many, including our beloved WBC President Jose Suleiman, dreamed of this,” the press release states.
