Usyk warns against underestimating Verhoeven: 'This is a fighter'

Oleksandr Usyk has dismissed suggestions his move to kickboxing against Rico Verhoeven will be straightforward. The unified heavyweight champion said he is treating the Dutchman as a serious threat, not a payday.

“I'm not [thinking] relaxed and this is easy money. This is a fighter.”

— Oleksandr Usyk, via BBC Sport

What Oleksandr Usyk said

Usyk has been linked to a crossover bout with Verhoeven, the long-reigning Glory heavyweight kickboxing champion. The Ukrainian is coming off back-to-back wins over Tyson Fury. Any kickboxing match would mark Usyk's first fight outside traditional boxing rules since turning professional.

What it moves

Usyk's comments suggest the crossover is being taken seriously on both sides. Verhoeven has not publicly responded to the challenge. The fight would need sanctioning outside the major boxing bodies, which do not oversee kickboxing rules. No date or venue has been announced.

Source: bbc.com. Full Oleksandr Usyk fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.