Usyk vs. Verhoeven: The Dutchman is more than 12 kg heavier than the Ukrainian

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.