Usyk and Verhoeven had their first face-off against the backdrop of the Egyptian pyramids
Photo: nstagram.com/usykaa
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk and Dutchman Rico Verhoeven met face-to-face for the first time after arriving in Egypt, where their title fight will take place. This is reported by Ring Magazine.
Immediately after arriving in Egypt, the athletes had their first face-off against the backdrop of the Giza pyramids. The Usyk vs. Verhoeven bout itself will take place near the famous pyramids on the night of May 24. The WBC heavyweight championship belt, held by the Ukrainian athlete, will be at stake. The WBA and IBF organizations have not agreed to defend other championship titles.
At the first face-off, the Ukrainian appeared in an outfit by DAMIRLI. The brand’s press service clarified that the main emphasis of the boxer’s costume is gold embroidery, which symbolizes light, dignity, sun, and unbreakable energy. The central symbol on the chest of the costume is a trident inscribed in a sunflower.
– The sunflower is a symbol of Ukraine, life, the land, and people who always reach for the light. The trident inside it is a symbol of the state, will, and identity. Together, they create not just a coat of arms or a decorative element, but an image of Ukraine as a living force – strong, warm, and unbreakable at the same time, the company stated.
The ornaments on Usyk’s costume are inspired by Ukrainian embroidery and elements of Cossack attire. Ombs and geometric symbols are also repeated throughout the costume. The belt with the symbol “IC XC NIKA” – an ancient sign of the victory of light over darkness – has special significance.
FACE OFF IN FRONT OF THE PYRAMIDS 👑
Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verhoeven going face-to-face for the first time at the event 👀
Glory in Giza | May 23rd | LIVE on DAZN 🥊 pic.twitter.com/HzXyFvpiY3
– Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) May 19, 2026
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- On May 17, Usyk arrived in Egypt for the fight against Verhoeven.
- On April 14, Usyk and Verhoeven had a face-off in London.