Usyk warns Rico Verhoeven clash 'not easy money'

Oleksandr Usyk has dismissed any notion he is taking Rico Verhoeven lightly, insisting the Dutch kickboxer presents a serious challenge. The former undisputed heavyweight champion said he is approaching the bout with full respect.

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

— Oleksandr Usyk, via BBC Sport

What Oleksandr Usyk said

Usyk faces Verhoeven in a hybrid rules fight that has drawn scepticism from boxing purists. The Ukrainian moved back into the gym immediately after losing his rematch with Tyson Fury in December, and the Verhoeven bout represents his first outing since stepping away from traditional boxing. Verhoeven competes in kickboxing, where he holds multiple heavyweight titles.

What it moves

Usyk's comments suggest he views the fight as more than a novelty event. Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: "I'm not [thinking] relaxed and this is easy money. This is a fighter." The remark undercuts talk that the bout is a tuneup or a payday between bigger assignments, though Usyk has not confirmed what comes next.

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