The world of combat sports turns its eyes to the historic Giza plateau in Egypt tonight as unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk steps into the ring for a unique crossover clash against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven. Branded “Glory in Giza,” this title defence promises to be one of the most visually spectacular events in boxing history.
Usyk, the undefeated pound-for-pound king, enters the bout with a perfect 24-0 professional record. Having already cleared out the division by defeating the likes of Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, the Ukrainian is now testing himself against a decorated striking specialist in Verhoeven. The Dutchman, long considered the “King of Kickboxing” during his dominant reign in GLORY, is making his second foray into professional boxing, setting the stage for a compelling “master vs. monster” narrative.
How to Watch: Fight Times and Broadcast Details
For UK viewers, the “Glory in Giza” event is being broadcast exclusively via LINK: DAZN PPV | [https://www.dazn.com]. The action from the Pyramids is set to be a late-night affair for British fans.
Coverage begins at 6:00 PM BST this Saturday, May 23. The main event ring walks for Usyk vs. Verhoeven are expected to commence around 10:50 PM BST, though this is subject to the length of the preceding undercard.
The Full Undercard
The card is packed with high-stakes matchups, providing plenty of action before the headline attraction:
- Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven (WBC Heavyweight Title)
- Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Alem Begic (Vacant WBO Super-Middleweight Title)
- Jack Catterall vs. Shakhram Giyasov (Welterweight)
- Frank Sanchez vs. Richard Torrez Jr. (Heavyweight)
- Mizuki Hiruta vs. Mai Soliman (WBO Women’s Super-Flyweight Title)
The Tale of the Tape and Expert Predictions
At Friday’s weigh-in, the physical disparity between the two men was clear. Usyk tipped the scales at a career-heaviest 233.3 lbs, reflecting his preparation for the sheer size of the Dutchman. Verhoeven, conversely, weighed in at a formidable 258.7 lbs.
Despite the size difference, most experts are firmly in the champion’s corner. Tony Bellew and other seasoned analysts have highlighted the vast chasm in boxing-specific experience. While Verhoeven is an elite athlete, the tactical nuances, footwork, and rhythm of professional boxing are worlds apart from kickboxing.
“Usyk’s ring IQ is unmatched,” says veteran analyst Eddie Hearn. “He has navigated giants before, and while Rico is a dangerous, powerful man, he is stepping into the realm of a technician who has mastered the art of the 12-round fight.”
Most predictions suggest a systematic breakdown of the challenger. Analysts anticipate that Usyk will use the early rounds to solve the puzzle of Verhoeven’s reach before increasing the pressure for a stoppage in the middle rounds, likely between rounds five and eight.
FAQ
What time does the Usyk vs Rico fight start?
UK coverage begins at 6:00 PM BST. The main event ring walks are scheduled for approximately 10:50 PM BST.
Where is the fight taking place?
The event is being held at the Giza Pyramid Complex in Egypt. It is an open-air spectacle set against the backdrop of the Pyramids.
Where can I watch the fight in the UK?
The fight is being streamed globally and exclusively on DAZN via Pay-Per-View.
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As the sun sets over the Giza plateau, the scene is set for a historic night. Whether Verhoeven can pull off the shock of the decade or Usyk continues his march toward legendary status, one thing is certain: “Glory in Giza” is a spectacle that will be talked about for years to come.
