Fight at the Pyramids: Usyk vs. Verhoeven Set for Egypt Showdown

Usyk vs. Verhoeven Matchup

According to Главком: On May 23, 2026, a boxing match between Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk and Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven will take place on the Giza Plateau near the pyramids in Egypt. Usyk, the world heavyweight boxing champion, will defend his WBC title. Bookmaker GGBET has installed Usyk as the heavy favorite with odds of 1.1 for his victory, while Verhoeven's win is priced at 12.3.

At 39 years old, Usyk has a perfect professional record of 24 wins in 24 fights, with 15 coming by knockout. He stands 191 cm tall and weighs 105.8 kg. Verhoeven, 37, has fought 76 times, winning 66 (21 by KO) and losing 10. He measures 196 cm in height and weighs 117.3 kg. Usyk last stepped into the ring in July 2025, when he knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round to become an undisputed world champion for the third time.

Undercard and Predictions

The undercard features seven bouts, four of which are title fights. A key matchup is between Cuba's Frank Sanchez and American Richard Torres Jr. for the IBF title eliminator. Usyk has also vacated the WBO belt, retaining the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles. The main event is scheduled to start around 23:45 Kyiv time. In Ukraine, the fight will be broadcast via Kyivstar TV.

GGBET's odds for the Usyk-Verhoeven fight highlight Usyk as the favorite, with a draw priced at 21 and the over 5.5 rounds line set at 1.9. This suggests analysts expect the bout to last beyond five and a half rounds, though an early finish remains possible.

This fight promises to be a landmark moment in boxing and kickboxing, as two athletes from different disciplines-'The King of Boxing' versus 'The King of Kickboxing'-meet in the ring.

The clash between Usyk and Verhoeven not only captures the attention of sports fans but could also significantly shape the careers of both men. A win for Usyk would solidify his legacy in boxing, while a Verhoeven victory could open new doors for kickboxing. Holding the fight at the iconic Giza Plateau adds a layer of symbolism and global appeal, underscoring the intrigue and international reach of modern combat sports.

As the anticipation builds for the Usyk vs. Verhoeven match, it's worth noting how personal journeys can impact athletes' performance. Recently, Mike Tyson shared his experience of being drug-free for nine years, which highlights the importance of mental and physical wellness in competitive sports. This narrative serves as a reminder of the challenges fighters may face beyond the ring.