Bellew Identifies What Would Be Boxing's Greatest Shock Ever After Usyk's Fight

Usyk vs. Verhoeven: The Showdown

According to Главком: Former world champion Tony Bellew has weighed in on the chances of Oleksandr Usyk losing to Rico Verhoeven in their upcoming bout on May 23 in Egypt, set near the pyramids of Giza. The match carries significant weight as the WBC has sanctioned Usyk's voluntary title defense, with The Ring belt also on the line. Usyk, who holds the WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight titles, gave up the WBO belt-thereby losing his status as the undisputed world heavyweight champion-but still retains three major straps.

Oleksandr Usyk last stepped into the ring in July 2025, when he knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round, claiming the undisputed world championship for the third time. Analyzing Verhoeven's chances, Tony Bellew stated that if Rico manages to beat Usyk, it would be

“the greatest victory in boxing history.”

He emphasized that Usyk is at his

“peak version”

as a boxer, having recently defeated Tyson Fury and the 'wrecking machine' Daniel Dubois, who delivered the best performances of his career.

Expert Insights

Serhiy Lapin, a director at Ready To Fight, also shared his perspective on the event, noting that 'becoming a three-time undisputed heavyweight champion is a historic feat' and that Usyk is highly motivated to achieve this goal. In Ukraine, the fight will be streamed on the Kyivstar TV platform. Oleksandr Usyk aims to reclaim the undisputed heavyweight crown, and this bout against Verhoeven represents a critical step in that journey.

The meeting between Usyk and Verhoeven not only draws attention to the sport but also underscores the significance of boxing titles. For Usyk, it is a chance to regain undisputed champion status, while for Verhoeven, it offers an opportunity for a historic victory that could redefine his career. The fight's unique location further elevates its importance within the sporting world.

As the anticipation builds for Usyk's clash with Verhoeven, understanding the stakes involved in this bout is crucial. The fight not only represents a chance for Usyk to reclaim his undisputed title but also highlights the importance of the WBC and The Ring belts in the boxing landscape. For those interested in the details surrounding this monumental event, more information about the upcoming fight can provide deeper insights into the implications of this matchup.