Dutch kickboxing icon Rico Verhoeven is set to challenge unified heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC world heavyweight title on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The historic crossover bout, titled “Glory in Giza,” will take place at the Pyramids of Giza in Giza, Egypt. This marks Verhoeven’s first professional boxing match in over twelve years, following his second-round stoppage victory over Janos Finfera in April 2014. While Usyk brings a perfect 24-0 boxing record to the ring, Verhoeven is confident that his size and unique striking background will provide a new challenge for the Ukrainian.
The World Boxing Association (WBA) has clarified the stakes for its own portion of the unified crown. The WBA stated that if Oleksandr Usyk wins, the bout will count as a successful defense of his WBA (Super) heavyweight title. However, the title will not be at stake for Rico Verhoeven. This technicality places the focus squarely on the WBC strap and the champion’s attempt to navigate a massive physical disparity. Verhoeven projects himself as being roughly 50 to 55 pounds heavier than the champion, a factor he believes is key to causing an upset in the open-air Egyptian venue.
For Rico Verhoeven, this fight represents more than just a single appearance in a new sport. He recently told Seconds Out that he views this as the moment that defines the “second half” of his career. By stepping into the ring against an Olympic gold medalist, he aims to “shock the world” and bring a style influenced by his decade of dominance in GLORY kickboxing. Fans can follow the latest Usyk-Verhoeven champion vs. kickboxing star updates as the two undisputed legends square off under the stars.
Weight advantage and kickboxing angles provide a tactical puzzle
Rico Verhoeven enters the contest with a significant physical presence, standing as a “big unit” compared to the slicker Ukrainian. His trainer, Peter Fury, has noted that the Dutchman weighs “like 125 kilos,” a figure that corelates with Verhoeven’s own estimate of roughly 123 kg (271 lb). The challenger believes his size, combined with “kickboxing angles” that traditional boxers rarely face, will present a puzzle that Oleksandr Usyk has yet to solve in his professional career.
“I’m bringing something different to the table that you haven’t seen before,” Verhoeven said during the lead-up to the event. He emphasized that as a 271-pound fighter, the impact of his punches will feel different to the champion. While sportsbooks have listed Usyk as a heavy 20-1 favorite, Verhoeven is banking on his ability to disrupt the rhythm of the unified champion. This transition is a key part of how Verhoeven intends to box post-Usyk, regardless of whether he secures the knockout or takes the fight to a decision.
Broadcast logistics and viewing details for Glory in Giza
The “Glory in Giza” event will be accessible to a global audience through DAZN Pay-Per-View and the DAZN Ultimate Tier. The main card is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM EEST (6:00 PM BST / 1:00 PM ET). Ringwalks for the main event between Rico Verhoeven and Oleksandr Usyk are expected at approximately 12:48 AM EEST on Sunday, May 24. For viewers in the UK, the PPV cost is set at £24.99, while US fans can purchase the event for $59.99.
Promoters have also offered a bundle option for fans wishing to watch multiple high-profile cards. Viewers can purchase the Egyptian title fight alongside other bouts such as Tyson Fury vs. Hall for a combined price of £44.99 or $107.99. This allows fans to follow the movement of the entire heavyweight division, including the progress of fighters like Richard Torrez Jr. and Frank Sanchez who are also active in the current championship landscape.
Future ambitions and a potential Anthony Joshua clash
Rico Verhoeven has not been shy about his long-term goals in the boxing world. He told Seconds Out, “I’m gonna get that belt and then from there we’re gonna continue on as the face of boxing.” Part of that progression involves a potential showdown with two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. Verhoeven stated he is “most definitely” open to facing the British star, noting that a planned bout between them was previously scrapped last year.
Anthony Joshua is currently on his own path toward a return. The Brit is scheduled to fight Albania’s Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on July 25. This will be Joshua’s first appearance in the ring since he defeated Jake Paul in December. While Verhoeven is focused on the immediate task in Egypt, the prospect of a winner-takes-all clash against Joshua remains a significant narrative thread for the winner of the “Glory in Giza” spectacle.
Oleksandr Usyk acknowledges the unique challenge
Despite his status as an overwhelming favorite, Oleksandr Usyk has spoken with respect regarding his opponent’s achievements in kickboxing. Usyk noted that he respects those who reach the very top of their respective sports, acknowledging Verhoeven as one of those individuals. However, the Ukrainian was quick to remind his challenger that boxing is a “different game” with its own specific rules and “kings” that have spent lifetimes mastering the Sweet Science.
Usyk’s team has framed this match as a unique challenge designed to push the boundaries of traditional boxing. With his WBC, WBA, and IBF titles serving as the ultimate prize, the champion is tasked with defending his legacy against a man who has dominated another discipline for over 11 years. As the main event approaches, the world waits to see if the legendary kickboxer can indeed “solve the puzzle” of the division’s most elusive champion.
