---
title: "Verhoeven's Cross-Sport Challenge: Kickboxing Meets Boxing in Egypt"
description: "Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven takes on Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC heavyweight title at the Giza Pyramids this Saturday."
url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/asi-es-el-kickboxer-rico-verhoeven-pro-ximo-rival-de-usyk-b5d94031
published: 2026-05-22T20:57:43.277+00:00
updated: 2026-05-22T20:57:43.277+00:00
author: "Kostadin Stamboliev"
publisher: "Pineido"
site: "Sportopod"
language: en
topics: ["boxing", "mma"]
---

# Verhoeven's Cross-Sport Challenge: Kickboxing Meets Boxing in Egypt

> Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven takes on Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC heavyweight title at the Giza Pyramids this Saturday.

Rico Verhoeven, the Dutch kickboxer known for rejecting UFC offers, is set to challenge Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC heavyweight title this Saturday at the Giza Pyramids in Egypt.

Verhoeven, who has also pursued a career in acting, will bring his striking expertise to the squared circle against one of boxing's top heavyweights.

Verhoeven's transition from kickboxing to boxing adds intrigue to this fight, which marks a unique crossover between the two combat sports.

The event, scheduled for 19:00 on DAZN, has the potential to redefine the boundaries between kickboxing and boxing.

This fight highlights the growing crossover between kickboxing and boxing, with Verhoeven's participation bringing a new level of excitement to the sport.

The implications of this fight extend beyond the ring, as it may pave the way for more cross-sport combat in the future.

## Why this matters

This fight showcases the increasing overlap between kickboxing and boxing, with Verhoeven's expertise in striking set to be put to the test against one of boxing's top heavyweights. The outcome of this fight could have significant implications for the future of cross-sport combat, potentially leading to more crossovers and new opportunities for athletes.

## Frequently asked

### What is the WBC heavyweight title fight between Rico Verhoeven and Oleksandr Usyk?

The WBC heavyweight title fight is a boxing match between Rico Verhoeven, a Dutch kickboxer, and Oleksandr Usyk, a Ukrainian boxer, for the WBC heavyweight title. The fight takes place at the Giza Pyramids in Egypt this Saturday.

### Why is Rico Verhoeven challenging Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC heavyweight title?

Rico Verhoeven, a Dutch kickboxer, is challenging Oleksandr Usyk for the WBC heavyweight title as part of a unique crossover between kickboxing and boxing. Verhoeven has a background in kickboxing and is looking to test his skills against one of boxing's top heavyweights.

### Where can I watch the WBC heavyweight title fight between Rico Verhoeven and Oleksandr Usyk?

The WBC heavyweight title fight between Rico Verhoeven and Oleksandr Usyk will be broadcast on DAZN this Saturday at 19:00.

### What are the implications of this fight for the future of cross-sport combat?

The outcome of this fight could have significant implications for the future of cross-sport combat, potentially leading to more crossovers and new opportunities for athletes. If Verhoeven is successful, it may pave the way for more kickboxers to transition to boxing and vice versa.

## Sources & Citations

- [Así es el kickboxer Rico Verhoeven, próximo rival de Usyk: rechazó a la UFC y también es actor](https://as.com/masdeporte/polideportivo/asi-es-el-kickboxer-rico-verhoeven-proximo-rival-de-usyk-rechazo-a-la-ufc-y-tambien-es-actor-f202605-n/) — NewsData.io (2026-05-22)

---

Cite: Verhoeven's Cross-Sport Challenge: Kickboxing Meets Boxing in Egypt. Sportopod, 2026-05-22. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/asi-es-el-kickboxer-rico-verhoeven-pro-ximo-rival-de-usyk-b5d94031