Oleksandr Usyk is scheduled to defend his WBC heavyweight title against Rico Verhoeven on May 23. The event is set to take place at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, an announcement made by Ring Magazine.
The Championship Bout
The championship bout will feature Oleksandr Usyk defending the WBC heavyweight title against challenger Rico Verhoeven. The fight is confirmed for May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Oleksandr Usyk's Professional Background
Usyk's most recent professional boxing match occurred in July 2025, where he defeated Daniel Dubois by fifth-round knockout. This victory brought his professional record to 24-0. In that bout, Usyk retained the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles, and also acquired the IBF belt.
Over the four years preceding this announcement, Usyk secured six victories, including two wins each against Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Daniel Dubois.
Rico Verhoeven's Professional Background
Rico Verhoeven has one prior professional boxing appearance, which resulted in a second-round knockout victory in Germany in 2014. Verhoeven is a former GLORY kickboxing champion. He concluded his tenure with GLORY after successfully defending his title against Artem Vakhitov in June 2025.
Verhoeven maintained an undefeated record in kickboxing for 11 years, accumulating a 22-fight winning streak.
Discussions had taken place regarding a potential fight with Derrick Lewis in the UFC at UFC 324, but Verhoeven ultimately did not sign with the mixed martial arts organization.
Fighter Statements
Usyk issued a statement expressing his respect for individuals who achieve the highest levels in their respective sports, identifying Verhoeven as a powerful athlete and champion.
Verhoeven commented that his extended period as a kickboxing champion had not diminished his drive or hunger.