Boxing and combat sports are making history with an unprecedented clash of titans when Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verhoeven face off at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt on 23 May 2026. The monarch of the squared circle faces the king of the tatami in a truly mystical setting.
Here are all the details you need to know so you don’t miss this mega-event.
Fighter Breakdown
- Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs): The Ukrainian has cemented his status as one of the living legends of modern boxing. After cleaning out the division to become the undisputed cruiserweight champion, he repeated the historic feat in the heavyweight division. His surgical technique, masterclass footwork, and ring IQ keep him undefeated and at the absolute pinnacle of the sport.
- Rico Verhoeven (60+ Wins): Known worldwide as “The King of Kickboxing,” Verhoeven is the dominant face of the modern era in the GLORY promotion. The Dutch giant has built an indestructible legacy based on an imposing physique, ironclad consistency, and an elite competitive drive that has kept him as the world heavyweight champion for years. Now, he looks to transition his dominance into elite boxing.
When and Where is the Fight?
This historic showdown will take place this coming Saturday, May 23, 2026, under the stars against the majestic and imposing backdrop of the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Where to Watch the Fight Live
The global broadcast for the entire world will be available exclusively through the DAZN platform: dazn.com/wbc.
Broadcast Schedule
- Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras: 11:00 AM (Central Mexico Time)
- Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Panama: 12:00 PM
- United States (ET), Puerto Rico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, and Venezuela: 1:00 PM
- Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile: 3:00 PM
- Spain and Egypt: 7:00 PM
The Full Fight Card
The undercard of this historic world championship event promises major excitement from top to bottom:
- Main Event: Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven (For the WBC World Heavyweight Title)
- Co-Main Event: Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Alem Begic
- Women’s Bout: Mizuki Hiruta vs. Mai Soliman
- Heavyweight Clash: Frank Sánchez vs. Richard Torrez Jr.
- Eliminator Bout: Jack Catterall vs. Shakhram Giyasov
- International Undercard:
- Basem Mamdouh vs. Jamar Talley
- Sultan Almohammed vs. Dedy Imprax
- Omar Hikal vs. Ali Sserunkuma
- Mohamed Mabrouk vs. Michael Kalyalya
SOURCE: WBA
