Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is set to clash with kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven in a highly anticipated boxing match on May 23, 2026. The bout will take place in Egypt, near the iconic Pyramids of Giza, and will feature Usyk defending his WBC title.
This matchup marks Usyk’s first championship fight of the year and presents a unique challenge, as Verhoeven transitions from a successful kickboxing career to professional boxing. Despite having limited boxing experience, this will be Verhoeven’s second professional boxing match, following a storied career in kickboxing where he held multiple heavyweight titles.
Usyk will defend three championship belts: the WBA, IBF, and WBC, while Verhoeven will only be eligible to contest the WBC title. The fight comes after speculation surrounding Usyk’s potential matchup with former world champion Deontay Wilder, making Verhoeven a surprising yet intriguing opponent.
The boxing event will kick off at 8:00 PM local time in both Kyiv and Egypt, with the preliminary fights starting at that hour. A total of nine bouts are scheduled for the evening, including three championship fights.
Live coverage of the Usyk-Verhoeven fight will begin at midnight Kyiv time, although the main event is expected to commence no earlier than 12:30 AM. The exact timing of the main event may shift depending on the outcomes of earlier matches, particularly if they go the full distance without a knockout.
For viewers in Ukraine, the match will be available for streaming on the Kyivstar TV platform, which requires a subscription to access. Additionally, public broadcaster Suspilne Sport will provide a live text commentary of the event, featuring exclusive insights and updates from their correspondent in Egypt.
Oleksandr Usyk will defend his WBC title against kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven on May 23, 2026, in Egypt. The match will feature a total of nine bouts, with Usyk aiming to maintain his championship status against a formidable opponent transitioning from kickboxing.