The global boxing spotlight turns to Egypt tonight as Oleksandr Usyk defends his WBC Heavyweight title against kickboxing superstar Rico Verhoeven in one of the most unique combat sports events of 2026. The massive showdown takes place at the historic Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, creating a spectacular backdrop for an unforgettable night of boxing action.
Fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see whether Usyk can continue his dominance in the heavyweight division or if Verhoeven can shock the boxing world in only his second professional boxing appearance. The event is streaming live on DAZN PPV, while the preliminary undercard is available free on YouTube beginning at 11 a.m. ET.
Usyk vs Verhoeven Fight Card Details
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Oleksandr Usyk vs Rico Verhoeven |
| Title on the Line | WBC Heavyweight Championship |
| Date | Saturday, May 23, 2026 |
| Venue | Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Egypt |
| Main Card Start Time | 1 p.m. ET |
| Prelims Start Time | 11 a.m. ET |
| Streaming | DAZN PPV |
| Preliminary Stream | YouTube |
The co-main event also carries major importance as rising star Hamzah Sheeraz battles Alem Begic for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight title. Boxing fans are expecting fireworks throughout the card with several exciting prospects and international fighters featured in the preliminaries.
Live Preliminary Undercard Results
| Division | Winner | Loser | Result | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cruiserweight | Basem Mamdouh | Jamar Talley | Basem Mamdouh won | KO – Round 2 |
| Lightweight | Sultan Almohammed | Dedy Imprax | Sultan Almohammed won | KO – Round 1 |
| Super Lightweight | Mohamed Mabrouk Yehya | Michael Kalyalya | Mohamed Mabrouk Yehya won | Unanimous Decision (38-37, 40-35, 40-35) |
| Welterweight | Omar Hikal | Ali Sserunkuma | Omar Hikal won | KO – Round 3 |
Fans should stay tuned throughout the day as live winners, knockout highlights, and official scorecards are expected to arrive once the fights begin inside the iconic venue in Egypt.
Main Event Preview
Usyk enters the fight as one of the greatest technical heavyweights of this era. The undefeated Ukrainian champion has already defeated several elite opponents during his incredible career and now faces a completely different challenge against Verhoeven.
While Verhoeven is widely known for his legendary kickboxing accomplishments, this fight represents a major step up in boxing competition. His size, power, and athleticism could make him dangerous early, but Usyk’s elite footwork, ring IQ, and championship experience make him the clear favorite entering the 12-round title fight.
The atmosphere around the Pyramids of Giza is expected to be electric as thousands of fans gather for one of the most visually stunning boxing events ever staged.
How to Watch Usyk vs Verhoeven Tonight
Boxing fans can watch the preliminary fights free on YouTube starting at 11 a.m. ET. The official DAZN PPV broadcast begins at 1 p.m. ET and includes the full main card, co-main event, and the heavyweight championship main event between Usyk and Verhoeven.
With championship gold, global attention, and history on the line, tonight’s event promises drama, entertainment, and potentially unforgettable moments in the heavyweight division.