The World Boxing Association (WBA) has stated that it will not recognize Rico Verhoeven as the WBA heavyweight champion (above 90.7 kg) if he defeats world champion Oleksandr Usyk in a fight in Egypt on May 23.
"If Verhoeven wins (against Usyk), he will not be recognized as the WBA champion because he is not currently ranked in the WBA professional boxing organization," the WBA said in a statement on its official website, as monitored.
Dutchman Verhoeven has been competing at the elite professional kickboxing level since 2005. For nearly two decades, he has performed at the highest level and established himself as one of the greatest heavyweight kickboxing champions of all time.
At 36 years old, Verhoeven has already competed in 76 professional kickboxing bouts. He also recently relinquished his Glory Kickboxing Heavyweight title after an 11-year undefeated streak, a rare feat in the kickboxing world.
