The world title picture for Oleksandr Usyk’s (24-0, 15 KOs) May 23 clash with Rico Verhoeven (1-0) in Egypt has been clarified, with each sanctioning body taking a different approach to the fight.
The WBC has put its heavyweight belt fully on the line, meaning Verhoeven can claim the title outright with a win. The WBA has confirmed a Usyk victory will count as a successful defence, but if Verhoeven pulls off the upset, he will not be awarded the belt — a committee will instead convene to determine next steps.
The IBF has taken the sharpest stance of the three, confirming it will immediately declare its heavyweight title vacant should Usyk lose, with Verhoeven again unable to claim it. Should Usyk come through, he will be ordered to make a mandatory defence against WBC mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel.