Verhoeven eyes decision win over Usyk in crossover bout

Rico Verhoeven has outlined his ideal scenario for a potential crossover fight with Oleksandr Usyk, saying a decision victory would prove he can go 12 rounds with boxing's top pound-for-pound fighter.

“If it comes to a decision and I get the win, wow. Then I faced the pound-for-pound fighter in the world for years and years and I beat him over 12 rounds. He tried everything and he couldn't beat me. That would be the ultimate.”

— Rico Verhoeven, via BBC Sport

What Rico Verhoeven said

Verhoeven competes at 123 kg and fights in a different combat sport. The prospect of facing Usyk would represent a crossover challenge that requires him to adapt his approach for a boxing ring over championship distance.

What it moves

The kickboxing champion is focused on proving durability rather than seeking a stoppage. Verhoeven told BBC Sport that surviving Usyk's full arsenal over 12 rounds would deliver the ultimate validation of his skillset in a boxing ruleset.

Source: bbc.com. Full Rico Verhoeven fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.