Oleksandr Usyk is set to defend his WBC heavyweight title against all-time great kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt.
After a farewell to Glory Kickboxing, following a 12-year heavyweight title reign. Verhoeven is stepping into the boxing ring against one of the sport’s most accomplished champions, and that too in only his second professional boxing match, many are counting him out. However, Jarrell Miller, who has come from kickboxing, backed the Dutch star to get the job done.
Miller was asked about his prediction for Usyk vs. Verhoeven in an interview with Matchroom Boxing before his fight with Lenier Pero. The American acknowledged that Usyk is widely expected to win, but he made it clear where his loyalty lies.
“I came up on the kickboxing scene with Rico Verhoeven. You know Glory and K-1 phenomenal fighter in his respectable sport.”
The ‘Big baby’ recognised the statistical and stylistic advantage in Usyk’s favour but still leaned towards Verhoeven.
“If you want to go with statistics, yes the fight favours Usyk, yes Usyk is Usyk supposed to win, and all that. Yes, we can say that but I’m going with my boy, I’m going with my boy Rico, man.”
As for Miller, he secured a unanimous decision victory over Pero in the WBA heavyweight title eliminator at Fontainebleau Las Vegas on April 25.
Verhoeven looks to prove a point against Usyk
Ahead of the highly anticipated bout, in the Ring Magazine interview, Verhoeven embraced the challenge, making it clear that his full focus is on the task ahead.
“For me now, I’m just focused on the task that’s ahead, and that’s Oleksandr Usyk,” he said.
The Dutch heavyweight also pointed to a potential size advantage as a key factor heading into the fight.
“With the weight difference, as soon as I clip him, he’s going to feel that. There’s going to be at least a 20-kilogram difference.”
Despite Usyk’s reputation, Verhoeven sees the bout as an opportunity rather than a mismatch.
“He’s like the unbeatable guy. What an opportunity I have to show that he’s not that unbeatable. It’s just a man with two arms and two legs. I’m going to go out there, I’m going to showcase who Rico Verhoeven is.”
Usyk is widely regarded as one of the most skilled technicians in modern boxing. His footwork, ring IQ, and experience at the highest level make him a clear favorite heading into the bout.
Verhoeven, on the other hand, is a dominant force in kickboxing, known for his size, athleticism, and striking power.
However, the transition from kickboxing to boxing presents a significant challenge, particularly against an opponent of Usyk’s calibre. It will be interesting to see how this fight unfolds.
