A highly anticipated boxing match between Oleksandr Usyk, the two-weight undisputed and unified heavyweight champion, and Rico Verhoeven, a renowned kickboxing great, is set to take place on Saturday at the iconic Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Promoter Eddie Hearn has weighed in on the unprecedented bout, acknowledging the immense challenge facing Verhoeven while refusing to entirely rule out a historic upset.

Hearn expressed that on paper, the fight presents an "impossible mountain to climb" for Rico Verhoeven, particularly for a conventional boxer. However, he quickly rephrased this, emphasizing that Verhoeven's exceptional career and unique background suggest he is not a "normal man." Hearn also took the opportunity to commend Oleksandr Usyk, hailing him as one of the greatest fighters of this generation and an exemplary figure for young athletes due to his unparalleled work ethic and mindset. He credited Usyk's undefeated status to the dedication he witnessed firsthand during Anthony Joshua's time in Usyk's camp.

Despite the overwhelming odds against Verhoeven, Hearn conceded that the Dutchman, whose physique he described as having "arms like the normal man's thighs," possesses a rare opportunity. He suggested that if Verhoeven were to emerge victorious, it would undoubtedly be regarded as "one of the greatest upsets in the history of boxing." Hearn added a dramatic flair, noting the unique and historic setting, stating, "If there was ever anything dramatic, ever anything strange to happen, it's going to happen at the foot of the Pyramids in Egypt."

Verhoeven himself met Usyk at the final news conference in Cairo, asserting that he will present a challenge unlike any Usyk has encountered before. He highlighted his kickboxing background, emphasizing, "I'm bringing something that he hasn't seen before because he's only faced boxers. And they've been boxing their whole life. I haven't." This distinct approach, he believes, will make a significant difference. Verhoeven reiterated his sole objective: to win, whether that comes by knockout or by decision, leaving the method of victory to "God's will."