Oleksandr Usyk Vs. Rico Verhoeven: Start Time And Ring Walks In Egypt

A heavyweight showdown unlike any other is set to unfold at the Pyramids of Giza, where boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk faces kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven in a historic crossover event. The fight streams live on DAZN, pitting the unified boxing heavyweight champion against the long-reigning Glory kickboxing champion in a spectacle that bridges combat sports disciplines. The event marks the first major boxing match held at the iconic Egyptian landmark, drawing global attention to both the athletes and the location. Usyk, undefeated in professional boxing, brings technical precision and ring IQ, while Verhoeven, undefeated in kickboxing since 2014, brings devastating striking power and a proven ability to adapt. The bout is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026, with the main card start time and projected ring walks serving as critical details for fans worldwide. DAZN subscribers can access the stream, with preliminary bouts beginning earlier in the evening. The choice of Egypt underscores a broader trend of combat sports expanding into new markets, leveraging historic venues for blockbuster events. Analysts view this as a potential blueprint for future cross-sport matchups, though purists debate the legitimacy of mixing rules. The fight is expected to draw millions of pay-per-view buys, with both fighters guaranteed career-high purses. For Usyk, a win cements his status as a generational talent; for Verhoeven, it would validate kickboxing on the biggest boxing stage. Whatever the outcome, the Usyk vs Verhoeven event from the Pyramids will be remembered as a landmark night in combat sports history.