Rico Verhoeven Faces Usyk in Egypt Pyramid Clash This Weekend

Kickboxing world champion Rico Verhoeven will step into the ring against former undisputed heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk this weekend in a bout staged beneath the Egyptian pyramids, according to a BBC Radio 5 Live preview aired Monday.

The pairing — a crossover spectacle matching disciplines — drew analysis from broadcaster Steve Bunce and Olympic bronze medallist Frazer Clarke, who questioned how Verhoeven's striking pedigree will translate against one of boxing's most decorated champions. "How will a kickboxing world champion fare against one of the greatest heavyweights of all time?" Bunce asked on the 5 Live Boxing podcast.

Verhoeven's Kickboxing Credentials Meet Usyk's Boxing Mastery

Usyk, who relinquished his heavyweight titles in 2025 after unifying the division, enters the fight as the clear boxing technician. Verhoeven holds multiple Glory kickboxing championships at heavyweight but has no professional boxing record. The bout reportedly follows a trend of hybrid matchups designed for spectacle rather than ranking implications.

Bunce and Clarke also reviewed Dave Allen's recent loss to Filip Hrgovic, while Clarke provided an update on his own career trajectory following a narrow defeat to Justis Huni. Clarke remains active in the heavyweight mix despite the setback.

The Verhoeven-Usyk card is scheduled for Saturday at the Giza pyramid complex, with exact broadcast details yet to be confirmed by the promoter.

Source: bbc.co.uk