Former kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven is looking to make his mark on the heavyweight division.
Verhoeven is considered one of the greatest kickboxers of all time, having held the heavyweight title for the equivalent of over 11 years.
Having made his boxing debut in 2014 with a KO win, he sensationally returned to the ring back in May to take on all-time heavyweight boxing great and two-time undisputed ruler Oleksandr Usyk and did much better than people expected.
The Dutchman established his jab early on and stayed tucked in behind a high guard, which enabled him to pick off Usyk for much of the fight.
However, Usyk got a foothold late on and got a controversial stoppage late in round 11, with many believing that Verhoeven should have been able to come out for the 12th, while Team Usyk claimed the stoppage prevented him from being badly knocked out.
Speaking to Seconds Out, trainer Peter Fury was asked if there is any chance of a rematch between the two.
“I think Usyk, as far as I know on social media, he’s fighting Wilder next. I think Usyk, he’s won everything in the sport; he’s going to fight who he wants to fight. He’s an incredible man, Usyk, the man’s done everything. Full props to him. He’s a great champion.”
He was then asked about Verhoeven’s next move.
“His team are looking for another big fight for him, so hopefully see him out late October, November.”
The WBC has recognised Verhoeven as a world-level contender and installed him at number 8 in their rankings, which means he could well fight a top contender next.
