Oleksandr Usyk defends his WBC heavyweight title against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Ring Magazine announced the full eight-bout lineup for the historic event they are promoting.
The undefeated Usyk (24-0) has captured undisputed championships in two weight divisions during his professional career. The Olympic gold medalist enters fresh off six consecutive fights against three opponents, defeating Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Daniel Dubois twice each.
Verhoeven brings his longtime GLORY heavyweight kickboxing championship pedigree to the boxing ring. The Dutch fighter attempts to shock the combat sports world in his crossover bout against one of boxing’s elite champions.
Championship Bouts Lead Stacked Card
Hamzah Sheeraz battles Alem Begic for the vacant WBO middleweight title in the co-main event. Jack Catterall faces Shakhram Giyasov for the WBA regular welterweight title in the featured contest.
Frank Sanchez meets Richard Torrez Jr in a heavyweight clash. The card also features Mizuki Hiruta vs Mai Soliman, Basem Mamdouh vs Jamar Talley, Mahmoud Mobark vs Michael Kalyalya, and Omar Hikal vs Ali Ssurunkuma.
The event marks a rare crossover opportunity for Verhoeven, who dominated the kickboxing heavyweight division for years. Usyk seeks to continue his reign as one of boxing’s most accomplished champions across multiple weight classes.
