Verhoeven: Usyk will feel 20-kilo weight difference when I hit him

Rico Verhoeven says his kickboxing background and natural size will give him an edge over Oleksandr Usyk. The heavyweight kickboxer, who competes at 123 kg, believes his striking style presents a different puzzle to the undisputed champion.

“Usyk has pulled the puzzle of boxing out and put it back together, but I'm not a traditional boxer - I'm a kickboxer. My stance is different, my movement is different and I am a naturally big, athletic guy. When I hit him, he's going to feel a natural 20-kilo weight difference.”

— Rico Verhoeven, via BBC Sport

What Rico Verhoeven said

Verhoeven is Glory's longest-reigning heavyweight champion and has floated the idea of facing Usyk in the past. The Dutchman's kickboxing stance and movement differ from traditional boxing fundamentals, and he carries significant weight over Usyk, who campaigns in the cruiserweight-to-heavyweight range. Speaking to BBC Sport, Verhoeven outlined how his approach would trouble the Ukrainian.

What it moves

Verhoeven's comments point to a potential crossover bout, though no formal talks have been announced. Usyk has entertained exhibition ideas before but has not committed to facing a kickboxer under any ruleset. The 20-kilogram weight gap Verhoeven mentions would represent one of the largest differentials Usyk has faced if the fight were made.

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