Ahead of the decisive fight between the WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven, a traditional weigh-in ceremony took place, where the Dutchman weighed in over 12 kg heavier than the Ukrainian, UNN reports.
Details
According to the weigh-in results, Verhoeven's weight was 117.3 kg, while Usyk's weight was 105.8 kg.
After the weigh-in, Verhoeven stated that the boxers are once again writing history by the pyramids.
Egypt is a beautiful country that already has such a rich history. And here we are, in 2026, at the first boxing event — perhaps even the last boxing event here, by the pyramids. And I will become a small part of this, so I am immensely grateful for this opportunity. I also thank His Excellency and his team, as well as the entire organization — Matchroom, Sela. And, as I said, we will not make predictions. Let the strongest man win. But first and foremost, we are going to enjoy the process
Usyk stated that "Verhoeven is a dangerous guy."
Listen, he is a dangerous guy. The undisputed heavyweight champion (of kickboxing) — this guy knows how to work well not only with his feet but with his hands as well; he is dangerous. You know, I am fully focused every time because he is a fighter, you understand? I don't relax with thoughts like: "Oh, this is easy money." No. This is a fighter, so for me, it's 100% concentration
He added that "for him, every fight is a treasure."
When I go to my camp, my preparation is my life. Because I leave my family, my children, my wife. Yes, of course, every fight brings me closer to the end, because I think I have three fights left. This is the first, then another one, the second, and I will go to rest. I value every day. Not just the fight — every day. Today, you know, is a special day because we won't get yesterday back, we won't get time back. Listen, people: live, develop, learn, smile, life... live, you know, this is life
Usyk concluded his speech with the words: "See you tomorrow. Glory to Ukraine!
Addendum
Also today, the athletes underwent a technical weigh-in procedure, where Usyk's weight was 105.8 kg and Verhoeven's was 117.3 kg.
Notably, before the Usyk-Verhoeven fight, nine more bouts will take place, including one featuring our compatriot Daniel Lapin, who will face Frenchman Benjamin Mendez Tani.
At the weigh-in, Lapin's weight was 78.8 kg, and Benjamin Mendez Tani's was 79.1 kg.
Recall
On Saturday, May 23, WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk will hold a fight against Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven. The WBC belt will be on the line, and the winner will also receive a WBC "Main Event" champion chain and pendant worth 40,000 dollars.