Rico Verhoeven explains why he chose boxing Oleksandr Usyk over UFC offer, plans to ‘shock the world’

Rico Verhoeven made a dramatic career pivot after leaving GLORY, declining a UFC contract offer in favor of pursuing a heavyweight boxing match against Oleksandr Usyk. The decision reflects Verhoeven's confidence in his striking abilities and his desire to test himself against elite-level competition outside the MMA landscape.

Verhoeven's departure from GLORY created significant buzz in the combat sports world, as his undefeated record spanning over a decade, combined with numerous title defenses, made him an attractive acquisition for multiple promotions. The UFC actively pursued the former GLORY heavyweight champion, recognizing his elite striking credentials and championship pedigree. Verhoeven's existing training relationship with UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall strengthened the organization's pursuit, as both fighters had been training partners for an extended period.

Despite the UFC's interest and the logical fit for his transition to MMA, Verhoeven ultimately chose to pursue boxing instead. His decision to face heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk represents an ambitious leap into elite professional boxing, pitting him against one of the sport's most accomplished heavyweight competitors. Verhoeven has expressed bold intentions about "shocking the world" with his boxing venture, suggesting confidence that his elite striking background will translate effectively to the professional boxing ring.

The choice underscores how premium combat sports talent increasingly has multiple paths available, with generous offers coming from various promotions. Verhoeven's willingness to forgo the UFC opportunity in pursuit of a heavyweight boxing championship fight demonstrates his faith in his striking abilities and his ambition to compete at the absolute highest levels, regardless of the ruleset or promotion involved.