Verhoeven promises to present a ‘unique challenge’ for titleholder Usyk
LONDON — Oleksandr Usyk provided a rationale on Tuesday for granting kickboxing sensation Rico Verhoeven a chance at his WBC heavyweight title.
“At times, I want to do what I desire,” the 39-year-old Usyk stated during a press conference.
The undefeated Ukrainian’s WBA and IBF titles will not be at stake when he competes against the 37-year-old Dutch kickboxer in a 12-round match on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Usyk, who last fought in July, securing a fifth-round knockout against Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, mentioned that “many people” have questioned his choice to face a newcomer, while contenders like Agit Kabayel – the WBC interim champion – await their turn.
“(Verhoeven’s) a remarkable individual, a formidable opponent,” Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) remarked. “Often, I comply with what others (request). I say okay, okay, okay – now, I will do what I (prefer).”
Verhoeven claims Usyk ‘will go down’ The 6-foot-5 Verhoeven has one boxing match to his credit, which took place in 2014. He has been a prominent heavyweight kickboxing champion.
He was inquired about how he plans to achieve what no other professional boxer has managed – defeating Usyk.
“I will utilize kickboxing angles, presenting a different kind of challenge,” Verhoeven stated. “I’m a substantial figure. I weigh around 125 kilos (265 lbs).”
Usyk, a former cruiserweight champion, competes at under 230 lbs and has triumphed over a variety of larger adversaries, including Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
“When I connect with my strongest punch, naturally he will go down,” Verhoeven expressed. “He resembles a enhanced cruiserweight. I am a naturally born heavyweight. Thus, that’s a significant distinction. That’s what will occur if I land my best shot cleanly, and if not, we will simply win.”
Usyk replied: “We’ll see.”
Earlier in the conference, Usyk had mentioned that “size doesn’t matter” and emphasized the importance of training and nutrition.
“Intense training and quality pasta – good pasta, double portion. It’s magical,” he noted.
Verhoeven also acknowledged British action star Jason Statham as “one of the individuals who facilitated this opportunity, so I’m very grateful to him.”
