Oleksandr Usik (39) will defend his WBC professional title in a spectacular duel against Dutch kickboxer Ricardo Verhoeven. The match is scheduled for May 23 and will be held at a unique location – in front of the pyramids in Giza, which is expected to create a spectacular atmosphere.
Usik is currently the world champion according to the IBF, WBA and WBC versions, and has an undefeated record of 24-0 in his career. He last performed in July last year, when he defeated Daniel Dubois at London’s Wembley Stadium.
– I respect Verhoeven’s path – he is the real “kickboxing king”, but boxing is a completely different game with its own rules. I’m looking forward to this match; it will be a unique experience for both me and the opponent, and the fans are certainly excited – said Usik.
On the other hand, Ric Verhoeven (36) pointed out that the duel with Usik motivates him: “I spent 12 years as the absolute champion in the heavyweight category in kickboxing and achieved everything I could. But that did not reduce my hunger, it only increased it. Usik is undisputed in boxing, and this challenge motivates me even more. The absolute champion against the absolute champion.”
Verhoeven is also known for being the sparring partner of former boxing champion Tyson Fury, and he had his only professional boxing fight in 2014, winning by knockout.
This match in front of the Pyramids of Giza is expected to become one of the most impressive sporting spectacles of the year, bringing together the worlds of boxing and kickboxing on the global stage.
(Vijesti.ba)
