Oleksandr Usyk will defend his WBC heavyweight title against kickboxing superstar Rico Verhoeven in Giza on May 23rd. The Ukrainian unified champion, unbeaten in 20 pro fights, faces the Glory promotion's dominant heavyweight with a 66-6 record. Verhoeven, renowned for his kickboxing reign and knockout power, is the first non-boxer Usyk has faced since turning pro.

Boxing legend Liam Harrison, a Muay Thai icon, states Verhoeven can't beat Usyk but deserves the lucrative fight. Harrison told Sky Sports Verhoeven would need to 'boot him in the leg' to gain an edge, adding no one can challenge Usyk's current dominance. Promoter Frank Warren confirms Usyk seeks big paydays, comparing this crossover to Anthony Joshua's fight with Francis Ngannou, viewing it as potentially easier money despite the risk.