WBA Approves Usyk's Title Defense Against Verhoeven

The World Boxing Association (WBA) has approved Oleksandr Usyk to defend his super heavyweight title against former kickbox champion Rico Verhoeven, with the bout scheduled for May 23 in Egypt, specifically at the iconic Pyramid of Giza. This fight is notable as it represents a rare crossover contest between boxing and kickboxing at the elite heavyweight level.

The WBA clarified that while Usyk's victory in the bout will count as a successful title defense, Verhoeven will not be eligible to win the title due to his current lack of ranking within the organization. Should Usyk suffer an upset defeat, the WBA championship committee will review the situation to determine the future of the heavyweight title.

Usyk remains unbeaten with a record of 24 professional fights, having previously unified major belts in both the heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions against elite opponents, including Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Daniel Dubois. Verhoeven, a dominant figure in kickboxing and a former Glory heavyweight champion, insists that he has the right to choose his opponent.