Patryk Stachowiak
Oleksandr Usyk vs Rico Verhoeven is officially set for May 23, 2026, with the iconic Pyramids in Egypt hosting one of the most unique crossover fights in combat sports history. The bout will headline a DAZN Pay-Per-View card, already generating massive global attention.
But what exactly are the rules — and who do they favour?
Confirmed Fight Rules: Pure Boxing Format
Despite early discussions about a hybrid ruleset, the fight has been officially sanctioned under traditional professional boxing rules. That decision is crucial — and heavily shapes the competitive balance.
- Ruleset: Standard boxing (no kicks, knees, or grappling)
- Rounds: 12 rounds
- Weight Class: Heavyweight
- Gloves: Standard boxing gloves
This immediately gives a clear stylistic edge to Usyk, whose elite boxing pedigree is unmatched in this matchup.
Why the Hybrid Rules Were Rejected
Rico Verhoeven initially pushed for a bold format: alternating rounds between boxing and kickboxing (1 round each, up to 12 rounds total). The proposal aimed to create a true “undisputed vs undisputed” clash across disciplines.
He even publicly stated:
“1 round boxing / 1 round kickboxing. Let’s see if we can get to 12.”
However, the idea was ultimately rejected in favor of a pure boxing contest — likely due to regulatory challenges, safety concerns, and sanctioning limitations.
From a competitive standpoint, this decision removes Verhoeven’s biggest weapons entirely.
Titles on the Line: What’s at Stake?
The fight has been officially approved by the WBC as a voluntary title defense.
- WBC Heavyweight Title: On the line
- WBA & IBF Titles: Not at stake
- Sanctioning: Special approval despite ranking controversy
Usyk enters with a perfect 24-0 record (15 KOs) and remains one of the most technically dominant heavyweights of his era. Meanwhile, Verhoeven — despite being a GLORY kickboxing legend — has just one professional boxing fight (1-0, 1 KO).
The WBC justified its decision by recognizing Verhoeven’s achievements in kickboxing, but the lack of traditional boxing credentials has sparked debate among purists.
Tactical Breakdown: Who Benefits?
Let’s be clear — this ruleset heavily favours Usyk.
Under boxing rules, Usyk’s advantages are obvious:
- Elite footwork and ring IQ
- Championship-level endurance over 12 rounds
- Proven success against top-tier heavyweights
Verhoeven, on the other hand, loses:
- Leg kicks and distance control
- Clinch dominance
- Years of kickboxing-specific muscle memory
The Dutch champion will need to rely purely on boxing fundamentals — timing, jab efficiency, and defensive discipline—to remain competitive.
Is that enough against a two-time undisputed champion? That’s the key question.
Why This Fight Matters
This bout isn’t just about competition — it’s about spectacle and market expansion.
Turki Alalshikh’s involvement signals another high-profile crossover event designed to capture global audiences. At the same time, Usyk is reportedly in talks with Dana White and Zuffa Boxing, which could reshape the promotional landscape moving forward.
If those negotiations progress, this fight could serve as a pivotal moment in Usyk’s late-career strategy.
Final Verdict
Strip away the hype, and the equation is simple:
Boxing rules = Usyk’s world.
While Verhoeven brings elite combat pedigree, the removal of kickboxing elements significantly limits his path to victory. Unless he adapts quickly to high-level boxing dynamics, this matchup leans heavily toward the Ukrainian champion.
Still, in crossover fights, unpredictability is always part of the equation.
And that’s exactly why the world will be watching.