Oleksandr Usyk returns to the ring as one of the main symbols of world boxing. The next opponent of the Ukrainian will be the legendary Dutch kickboxer Rico Verheyven. The fight is already being called one of the biggest sports shows of the year.
When will the Usyk vs. Verkhoven fight take place?
The match between By Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verhoeven is scheduled for 23 May 2026. The fight is to take place in Egypt near the pyramids of Giza as part of the big boxing night «Glory in Giza: Undefeated Icons».
The broadcast of the Usyk vs. Verkhoven boxing evening will start at around 20:00-21:00 Kyiv time, when the undercard fights will begin.
The main fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verheyven is expected:
- approximately at 23:45-00:30 Kyiv time;
- A more accurate forecast of the organisers is around 00:48 on the night of 24 May.
The fight will be available to watch in Ukraine on Kyivstar TV, while the international broadcast will be shown by DAZN.
The organisers promise a large-scale show with world stars and one of the most expensive productions in modern boxing.
Who is Rico Verhoeven
Rico Verhoeven - is one of the most famous kickboxers in the world and a long-standing Glory heavyweight champion. He is often called the «King of Kickboxing». The Dutchman is known for his physical power, aggressive style and incredible endurance.
Over the years, Verkhoven has defeated many top kickboxing fighters and become a global martial arts star. For him, the fight against Usyk will be one of the most high-profile events of his career.
At the same time, experts emphasise that despite his vast experience in kickboxing, in professional boxing, Verkhoven is far inferior to Usyk in terms of technique, movement and level of work in the ring.
What experts predict
Most analysts consider Oleksandr Usyk to be the clear favourite for the fight. The Ukrainian remains undefeated in professional boxing and has a reputation as one of the most technical heavyweights of our time.
Bookmakers also favour the Ukrainian champion. The main bets are on Usyk to win by points or technical knockout in the second half of the fight. At the same time, experts warn that Verhaegen has a very powerful punch and physical strength, so the Dutchman should not be underestimated.
Why this fight is causing such a stir
Usyk vs. Verkhovnev match goes far beyond classic boxing. This is a clash between two champions in different martial arts and a major media show on a global scale.
For Usyk, this fight will be another opportunity to confirm his status as an absolute boxing superstar. For Verkhoven, it will be a chance to make history if he manages to create one of the biggest sensations of recent years.
