Oleksandr Usyk has been given the green light to defend all three of his heavyweight titles against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven following a crucial ruling by the International Boxing Federation (IBF). The Ukrainian star will step into the ring at the iconic pyramids of Giza in Egypt on May 23 for a bout that has garnered significant attention across the combat sports world.
Background of the Fight
Initially, only Usyk's WBC title was on the line. The World Boxing Council granted the two-time undisputed heavyweight champion a voluntary title defence against Verhoeven, but stipulated that Usyk must face a mandatory challenger next or risk being stripped of the belt. Shortly thereafter, the WBA permitted Usyk to defend their title, though they declared that Verhoeven cannot win it even if he pulls off a monumental upset. Now, the IBF has delivered its verdict.
IBF Statement and Conditions
In a statement released on Thursday, the IBF outlined the details of their decision. The federation received a request from Usyk's representative, John Hornewer, on April 16, 2026, seeking permission for the champion to participate in an unsanctioned contest against Verhoeven. Under IBF Rule 5.H, participation in an unsanctioned bout typically results in the title being declared vacant. However, the IBF Board of Directors convened on April 29, 2026, and granted Usyk an exception subject to specific conditions.
- If Usyk loses: The IBF Heavyweight title will be declared vacant immediately.
- If Usyk wins: The IBF will acknowledge the WBC's position in the rotation system and order the IBF mandatory bout within 180 days thereafter.
- If the WBA grants a special permit: The IBF will acknowledge the WBA's position in the rotation and order the IBF mandatory bout within 180 days thereafter.
The IBF acknowledged that no affected boxers exist due to the rotation system among the IBF, WBA, WBC, and WBO. This system ensures that mandatory defences are staggered, allowing Usyk to proceed with the Verhoeven fight without immediate repercussions.
Mandatory Challengers
Agit Kabayel, who has long called for a showdown with Usyk, is the WBC's mandatory challenger. Meanwhile, Murat Gassiev currently holds the number one ranking with the WBA. The specific timeline for these mandatory defences will become clearer after next weekend's bout. Usyk will be required to defend his IBF strap either 180 days after his WBC mandatory defence or 180 days after a WBA mandatory defence, depending on the outcome of the Verhoeven fight.
Verhoeven's Boxing Background
Rico Verhoeven, a renowned kickboxer and multiple-time K-1 champion, has only one professional boxing match to his name—a second-round knockout victory over Janos Finfera in 2014. Despite his limited boxing experience, Verhoeven possesses the physical attributes and fight acumen that could pose a threat to Usyk. Finfera, who faced Verhoeven in that bout, believes his former opponent has the potential to cause one of boxing's greatest upsets.
In an interview with PlayUK, Finfera stated: "Rico is a kickboxer and a multiple K-1 champion. That is his domain; if they were to fight under those rules, his chances would be greater to win. In boxing, however, the advantage lies with Usyk. That said, in the heavyweight division, there is always the possibility that a fight can end with a single punch. Rico has the physical attributes, the talent, and the fight experience needed to compete with Usyk. He has all the tools. Ultimately, we'll see how it plays out in the ring. I'm rooting for both of them, and I believe we're going to see a very high-quality fight. I hope it lasts long, and whoever has their hand raised will truly deserve the victory. I'm very curious to see what this matchup will bring us."
What's Next?
The 39-year-old Usyk will now focus on his clash with Verhoeven, scheduled for May 23 at the Giza pyramids. The event promises to be a spectacular showcase, blending boxing with the grandeur of ancient Egypt. As the boxing world watches closely, the outcome will have significant implications for the heavyweight division, particularly regarding mandatory defences and the unification of titles.
