What’s next for Oleksandr Usyk following his dramatic victory over Rico Verhoeven? The champion managed to stop the Dutch kickboxer in the final moments of Round 11, narrowly escaping what could have been one of boxing’s most significant upsets.
Usyk’s performance raised eyebrows, revealing vulnerabilities not typically seen in the champion. This unexpected display has opened new avenues in the heavyweight division, leaving Usyk’s future options more expansive than ever.
Mandatory Challenger Ajit Kabayer Awaits
Ajit Kabayer, the WBC mandatory challenger, has been patiently waiting for his chance to face Usyk and is now positioned for a title shot. In accordance with WBC regulations, Usyk must defend his title against Kabayer or risk losing it.
Witnessing Usyk’s performance firsthand from ringside, Kabayer climbed into the ring to confront the champion directly. He expressed his readiness, saying that Germany, with its significant Ukrainian population, is eager to host the fight, emphasizing the demand from boxing fans for this matchup. Usyk responded positively, indicating his readiness to accept the challenge.
Potential Rematch with Rico Verhoeven
The prospect of an immediate rematch with Verhoeven gained traction as soon as the fight ended. Rick Reno, CEO of Ring Magazine, emphasized that despite the outcome, Verhoeven’s performance shifted the narrative. Although he didn’t secure a win, Verhoeven pushed Usyk to the edge, fueling calls for a second bout.
Turki Alarcik further elaborated on the situation, highlighting the importance of balancing mandatory obligations while maintaining interest in a blockbuster rematch. While he acknowledged Kabayer as a legitimate contender, he also proposed that Verhoeven deserves a rematch following Kabayer’s fight.
Frank Sanchez Enters the Picture
Following a second-round knockout of Richard Torres Jr. in the IBF Final Eliminator, Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez has declared his intent to challenge Usyk. Known for being one of the most avoided fighters in the division, Sanchez is eager to capitalize on his momentum and rise through the ranks.
Sanchez affirmed his readiness, stating that his team has been preparing tirelessly for this opportunity. With Usyk in their sights, Sanchez expressed confidence in facing the champion next.
Assessing Usyk’s Performance
Was Usyk’s latest performance a sign that age is catching up with him? At 39, he weighed in heavier than ever, reportedly feeling sluggish during the middle rounds when he was expected to be in control. His slow reactions and heavy feet were evident against a relatively inexperienced opponent.
Former cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew, who had previously lost his title to Usyk, suggested that Verhoeven exposed vulnerabilities that had never been apparent before. Bellew noted that, in a significant portion of the fight, Usyk appeared to be outclassed, trailing at the end of many rounds.
