WBC grants sanctioning for Oleksandr Usyk to defend heavyweight title against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven

The WBC has approved Oleksandr Usyk's voluntary heavyweight title defense against kickboxing great Rico Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 3, 2026, 7:17 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from British Boxing News

A Sanctioning Decision Based on Activity

In a definitive ruling following its 63rd Annual Convention in Bangkok, the WBC has sanctioned the upcoming clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verhoeven. The Board of Governors highlighted Usyk’s unprecedented activity as a primary factor in their decision. Having defeated champions such as Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Daniel Dubois—each on two occasions—while maintaining an undefeated record, the WBC determined that the champion had earned the right to a voluntary defense against a high-profile challenger from a combat sports discipline.

The Pedigree of Rico Verhoeven

Rico Verhoeven enters the professional boxing ranks as one of the most decorated heavyweights in the history of kickboxing. Competing at the elite level since 2005, Verhoeven recently vacated his Glory Kickboxing Heavyweight title after an 11-year undefeated streak. At 36 years of age, the Dutch athlete brings a record of 76 professional fights and a history of headlining major stadium events that draw upwards of 40,000 spectators. The WBC noted that the transition from kickboxing to boxing has a successful history within their organization, particularly among Muay Thai athletes.

Historic Setting at the Pyramids of Giza

The bout is scheduled to take place at the Pyramids in Egypt, a location the WBC describes as giving the event "historic importance." This choice of venue fulfills a long-standing vision of the late WBC President Jose Sulaiman, who frequently expressed a desire to bring world-class boxing to the ancient landmarks. The organization believes the unique surroundings will elevate the match beyond a standard title defense, turning it into a global cultural and sporting spectacle.