WBC Board Reverses Course, Sanctions Usyk–Verhoeven as Title Defense
Boxing News
by Olly CampbellMarch 1, 2026
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The World Boxing Council (WBC) has made a significant decision by reversing its earlier stance and officially sanctioning Oleksandr Usyk’s upcoming fight against Rico Verhoeven as a heavyweight title defense. This move clears the way for the highly anticipated bout, which had been in limbo due to prior disputes over rankings and eligibility. The WBC’s reversal is seen as a pivotal moment for both fighters and the boxing community, ensuring that Usyk can defend his title against Verhoeven as planned.
The decision comes after months of deliberation and discussions between the WBC board and stakeholders in the boxing world. Usyk, the current WBC heavyweight champion, had been facing uncertainty about whether the fight would be recognized as a legitimate title defense. Verhoeven, ranked number one by the WBC, had argued that he should have been granted a mandatory title challenge earlier. The reversal of the WBC’s previous decision ensures that the fight will proceed under the sanction of the governing body, maintaining its status as a title defense.
This development is crucial for both fighters and promoters, as it keeps the fight on track for what could be one of the most significant heavyweight bouts in recent memory. Usyk, a former cruiserweight champion who made history by becoming the first Ukrainian to hold a world heavyweight title, has been working hard to establish himself in the division. Verhoeven, known for his powerful punching and
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Originally published on Boxing News on 3/1/2026