'I want to do what I want': Ukraine's Usyk speaks about his choice of rival
Oleksandr Usyk (photo: Getty Images)
An official media campaign has kicked off in the capital of the United Kingdom ahead of the highly anticipated bout between reigning champion Oleksandr Usyk and kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven, according to a live broadcast of the press conference.
First face-off in London: Сalm before the storm
Today, April 14, Oleksandr Usyk (24–0, 15 KOs) and Dutch representative Rico Verhoeven (1–0, 1 KO) held their debut press conference.
The Ukrainian champion appeared before the public wearing his signature hat, holding the WBC heavyweight belt.
Despite the prestigious title in his possession, the bout sanctioned by the World Boxing Council will not have the status of a title defense.
After finishing their conversation with journalists, the athletes took part in a traditional face-off.
The event took place in a notably respectful atmosphere: the opponents communicated calmly, avoiding any provocation or conflict.
Why Usyk chose a kickboxer: Сhampion’s position
The choice of opponent sparked significant debate in the sporting community, particularly due to pressure from contender Agit Kabayel, who insists on a mandatory title defense.
However, Oleksandr Usyk clearly explained his decision as a desire to try something new.
Oleksandr Usyk said that he was being asked about choosing Rico, since he was not a professional boxer, but described him as a great person and said that he truly wanted the fight. He added that he wanted to finally do what interested him rather than what circumstances demanded.
Oleksandr Usyk added that before he had always followed the rules and fought whoever he had to, but now it was time for his own desires.
Chances of victory: Experts and opponents' views
Rico Verhoeven, who is preparing under the guidance of Peter Fury, expressed confidence in his abilities.
The Dutch fighter noted that although transitioning to traditional boxing is challenging, he has sparring experience with elite fighters such as Dillian Whyte.
In his view, his kickboxing-based technique could become an unpleasant surprise for Usyk.
Meanwhile, legendary boxer Lennox Lewis remains skeptical about anyone’s chances of defeating the Ukrainian, considering Usyk unbeaten at this stage. Similar confidence was previously expressed by Ukrainian heavyweight Vladyslav Sirenko.
Date and venue of the fight
The major boxing night, with the undercard already fully confirmed, will take place on May 23, 2026.
The event will be held at a historic location — the city of Giza, Egypt.
For Oleksandr Usyk, this will be his first appearance in the ring since his triumphant title defense against Daniel Dubois in July 2025.
Meanwhile, Rico Verhoeven last fought in 2014, when he secured an early victory over Janoš Finfera.
Earlier, the full undercard for the Usyk vs. Verhoeven superfight was announced.
