WBA allows Usyk to defend belt against Verhoeven

Image source, Getty Images

• Published14 May 2026, 14:38 BST

The WBA has granted permission for Oleksandr Usyk to defend his 'Super' heavyweight title against Rico Verhoeven on 23 May, but under strict terms and conditions.

Unified champion Usyk, 39, faces former Glory kickboxing world champion Verhoeven at the pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

The WBC previously confirmed that Usyk's title would be on the line but there was uncertainty around whether that would also be the case with his WBA and IBF belts.

"Should Usyk emerge victorious, the bout will officially count as a successful title defence," the WBA said.

"However, the title itself will not be at stake for Verhoeven, as he is currently not ranked by the sanctioning body.

"If the champion were to lose, the WBA championship committee would then review his status and determine the next course of action regarding the heavyweight championship."

BBC Sport has contacted the IBF for comment on whether it will grant permission for Usyk to also defend that belt.

Usyk previously defended his decision to face Verhoeven, saying he should be able to "do what I want", having already beaten Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois on two occasions.

Usyk is yet to lose in 24 fights as a professional and has enjoyed three spells as an undisputed champion - twice at heavyweight and once at cruiserweight.

He also won Olympic gold for Ukraine at the 2012 Games in London.

Verhoeven, 37, has a formidable reputation in kickboxing but has only boxed once professionally in 2014.

The WBA said that Verhoeven would be eligible to enter its heavyweight rankings if he becomes the first man to defeat Usyk.

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