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Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven Set for Historic Clash at the Pyramids of Giza

Oleksandr Usyk is doing things his way. For perhaps the first time in his legendary career, the undisputed heavyweight champion is stepping outside the traditional boxing path and into something far more unpredictable.

Usyk will defend his titles against former Glory kickboxing king Rico Verhoeven on May 23, headlining “Glory in Giza” at the iconic Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, streaming on DAZN PPV.

“Now I Do What I Need”

Usyk made it clear this fight isn’t about obligation. It’s about freedom. “One time, I want to do what I want… now, I do what I need.” After years of traveling into hostile territory and fighting on opponents’ terms, the Ukrainian star is finally dictating his own path.

Champion vs. Kickboxing King

Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) enters as:

  • Undisputed heavyweight champion
  • No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter (The Ring)
  • Two-division undisputed king

Across from him stands Verhoeven (66-10 in kickboxing), a dominant force who ruled Glory’s heavyweight division for over a decade. But this is boxing. And that’s where the intrigue lies.

The Ultimate Wild Card

Verhoeven’s resume is elite in kickboxing. His boxing experience?

  • Just one professional bout (win by KO in 2014)

That gap creates a fascinating dynamic:

  • Usyk: Elite footwork, ring IQ, championship pedigree
  • Verhoeven: Size, power, and world-class striking instincts

High Risk, High Reward

Make no mistake this is a gamble. Even Usyk acknowledges the stakes, though he refuses to embrace pressure. “There’s no pressure for me. It’s just a fight.”

If he wins, it adds another unique chapter to an already historic career. If he loses? It could go down as one of the biggest upsets in combat sports history.

Loaded Undercard

The event isn’t just about the main event.

Key fights include:

  • Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Alem Begic (WBO super middleweight title)
  • Jack Catterall vs. Shakhram Giyasov (WBA welterweight belt)
  • Richard Torrez vs. Frank Sanchez (heavyweight eliminator)
  • Mizuki Hiruta vs. Mai Soliman

A global stage with championship stakes throughout.

Usyk’s Road to This Moment

Few fighters have traveled the path Usyk has:

  • World Boxing Super Series run largely on the road
  • Knockout win over Tony Bellew in Manchester
  • Upset victory over Anthony Joshua in the UK
  • Undisputed status cemented with wins over Daniel Dubois

No matter the location, Usyk has delivered. Now, he adds perhaps the most unique venue yet. This isn’t just a title defense.

It’s a statement. A champion choosing risk over routine. Legacy over safety. And on May 23, beneath one of the most historic backdrops in the world… Oleksandr Usyk will once again do things his way no matter the cost.

https://dicecitysports.com/2026/04/15/breaking-aja-wilson-makes-history-re-signs-with-aces-on-record-5-million-supermax-deal/

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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