Reigning UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has shared his thoughts on the potential matchup between Rico Verhoeven of the Netherlands and Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk. The English fighter assessed the strengths of both athletes, noting that such a clash would be no easy task.
Aspinall says he knows Rico Verhoeven very well. They have sparred together for ten years, which is why Tom views the Dutchman not just as a strong athlete, but as a close friend. Nevertheless, the UFC champion tried to remain objective, setting aside his emotions.
"I've sparred with Rico for ten years. That's why I know him so well and can easily call him my friend. Verhoeven is a strong guy, but Usyk is an elite-level boxer. Even though Rico is my friend, I have to be honest. A very tough test awaits him," Aspinall said.
Indeed, Oleksandr Usyk is considered one of the most technical, intelligent, and mobile heavyweights in the boxing world today. His footwork, distance management, ability to read opponents' punches, and capacity to adjust the pace during a fight pose complex problems for any rival.
However, Aspinall does not consider Verhoeven completely out of his depth. He believes that if the Dutchman utilizes his size, physical advantage, and vast kickboxing experience correctly, he could cause serious trouble for Usyk. Specifically, there is a chance he could disrupt the Ukrainian's game plan by applying pressure at close range and landing heavy shots.
Another interesting point from Tom Aspinall is that he rates Rico Verhoeven higher than Francis Ngannou from a boxing perspective. In his view, Verhoeven moves much better in the ring than Ngannou. Naturally, this opinion adds further intrigue to the potential fight.
"I think anyone can win this fight. Both have a chance. If Verhoeven uses his size effectively, he will definitely cause Usyk serious problems. Because in boxing, Rico is much better than Francis Ngannou," said the English champion.
For Usyk, this fight could be another major test. Even though he is technically superior, he would need to stay constantly active, control the distance, and avoid unnecessary risks against an opponent as physically strong and experienced as Verhoeven.
Verhoeven, meanwhile, must make the most of such an opportunity. For him, a victory is not just a sporting result, but a chance to prove himself at the highest level in the boxing world. In such fights, one punch, one mistake, or one well-chosen tactic can change the entire scenario.
As a reminder, the bout between Rico Verhoeven and Oleksandr Usyk will take place on the night of May 23 to May 24, Uzbekistan time.
In short, Tom Aspinall acknowledged Usyk as an elite-level boxer but also assessed Verhoeven as a serious threat. This fight pits technique and movement against physical strength and size. It looks like a bout worth losing sleep over.
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