This video can not be played
An unprecedented fight at the Pyramids of Giza: How Jason Statham may have played a part
Oleksandr Usyk is set to defend his WBC world title against Rico Verhoeven this Saturday in Egypt.
The bout is notable for its location and unique circumstances, as kickboxing champion Verhoeven receives a title shot in only his second professional boxing match, his first since 2014.
The 37-year-old Dutchman aims to achieve what would arguably be one of the sport’s greatest upsets.
Meanwhile, the 39-year-old Usyk looks to extend his nearly 17-year undefeated streak.
Will we witness an underdog victory for the ages, or will Usyk’s dominance continue?
BBC Sport gathers predictions from figures within the boxing community.
“I’m predicting Usyk to win by stoppage in the sixth round.”
Prediction – Usyk
“Usyk will secure a stoppage victory between rounds four and eight.”
Prediction – Usyk
“My forecast is that Usyk will stop Verhoeven in either the sixth or seventh round.”
Prediction – Usyk
Oleksandr Usyk v Rico Verhoeven
Tune in for radio coverage and live text commentary from 22:00 BST on Saturday, May 23rd, on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website and app.
“This is a truly unique and unpredictable fight, perhaps even more so than Francis Ngannou against Tyson Fury or Anthony Joshua. I anticipate Usyk will relish the opportunity to put on a show. While he could end it early, I foresee him wrapping things up by the midway point.”
Prediction – Usyk
“Knowing Usyk and the level he operates at, I believe he’s prepared and ready to deliver an outstanding performance.”
Predicton – Usyk
“Verhoeven will undoubtedly present a challenge, but unfortunately for him, he’s facing one of the all-time greats. Therefore, I can only foresee a victory for Usyk.”
Prediction – Usyk
This video can not be played
Oleksandr Usyk discusses fighting Rico Verhoeven, Anthony Joshua, and defending his world title
“I expect Usyk to win this fight. It may go late or to the scorecards, but if I had to choose, I’d lean towards a late stoppage. Verhoeven will be competitive early on and poses a threat with his power. However, Usyk will adapt, figure him out, and eventually break him down for a late stoppage.”
Prediction – Usyk
“I predict Usyk will win by TKO in either the fifth or sixth round.”
Prediction – Usyk
“Verhoeven could be a little unpredictable due to his background in a different discipline, but I anticipate Usyk will solve the puzzle and secure the win.”
Prediction – Usyk
How a kickboxing legend & Statham’s pal landed a shot at Usyk
Secrets, acting & 16 years unbeaten – in camp with Usyk
Usyk v Verhoeven – Hearn’s take
“I think everyone is right in saying Usyk will win whenever he wants to win. It will probably be somewhere between rounds five and seven.”
Prediction – Usyk
“I anticipate Usyk will be too fluid for the larger, more rigid Verhoeven. I’m going with Usyk by knockout in the ninth round.”
Prediction – Usyk
“I genuinely believe that, considering Verhoeven’s size and toughness, he could present problems for any other heavyweight in the division. I’m not saying he’d beat them, but he could certainly make it difficult. Unfortunately for him, he is facing one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. I think this goes as long as Usyk wants it to go. I’ll go for a corner stoppage in round five.”
Prediction – Usyk
“I can’t foresee anything other than a comfortable win for Usyk, potentially by a stoppage in the mid-to-late rounds.”
Prediction – Usyk
“Usyk will win this whenever he feels like it. This should be very straightforward for him.”
Prediction – Usyk
Can Verhoeven shock Usyk?
Usyk opponent Verhoeven ‘not a normal man’ – Hearn
Usyk v Verhoeven – all you need to know
Boxing schedule and results 2026
Watch every Born to Brawl episode
Notifications, social media and more with BBC Sport