Rico Verhoeven Eager for Francis Ngannou Boxing Match: “We’re on the same level, if not better”

Rico Verhoeven, widely considered the top pound-for-pound kickboxer in the world, has expressed strong interest in a boxing match against Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion. After Ngannou’s dominant victory over Renan Ferreira in his PFL debut, discussions quickly turned to his next opponent, with many speculating on his return to boxing. Ngannou has already fought top boxers like Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, and now Verhoeven believes he would make the perfect opponent to help the MMA star transition back to the boxing ring.

Crossover of Combat Sports

For Rico Verhoeven, the prospect of facing Francis Ngannou in boxing is incredibly exciting. As a kickboxing champion, Verhoeven sees this matchup as an opportunity to bring something fresh to the combat sports world. Both athletes are stand-up fighters with impressive credentials: Ngannou is a former MMA heavyweight champion, and Verhoeven has reigned as the king of kickboxing for years.

“This fight would be so, so different,” Verhoeven explained. “We’re both stand-up combat sports champions, and we both know how to use our hands and feet. How cool would it be to bring those worlds together?” Verhoeven emphasized that this would not be a typical fight between just a boxer and an MMA fighter, but rather a unique clash between an MMA fighter and a kickboxer—an exciting prospect for fight fans. Moreover, he believes the heavyweight division would provide the most thrilling platform for such a fight, offering the perfect mix of entertainment and intensity.

Verhoeven’s Undefeated Streak and Talks with Promoters

Verhoeven’s undefeated streak, which has lasted almost a decade, makes him a logical choice for a boxing match against Francis Ngannou. According to Verhoeven, talks for this potential fight have already begun.

“The talks have been there,” Verhoeven confirmed. “We’ve been in talks with [Saudi Arabia] for different fights. It was fun that Francis came out of the hat, but we were already discussing potential matchups before that. I’m excited for whatever the future holds.”

Verhoeven is confident that his extensive experience in boxing would allow him to make a seamless transition into the sport, much easier than Ngannou’s shift from MMA. Verhoeven has trained under the guidance of Tyson Fury’s uncle, Peter Fury, for years, making boxing second nature to him.

“For me, the transition isn’t even a transition,” Verhoeven said. “I’ve been training in boxing for years, and it’s natural for me. I’m ready for whatever comes my way.”

The Quest for Recognition of Verhoeven vs. Ngannou

Despite his dominant reign in kickboxing, Verhoeven often feels his name is overlooked when discussing the top heavyweight fighters across combat sports. Francis Ngannou has garnered significant attention as the former UFC heavyweight champion, while Oleksandr Usyk stands as a top boxer after his victory over Tyson Fury.

“I’ve been dominating the sport for over a decade, and nobody has done that,” Verhoeven said. “Why is my name not there? Because kickboxing doesn’t have as big a platform as boxing or MMA. But quality-wise, fighting-wise, I’m on the same level, if not better.”

Verhoeven believes that if he could defeat someone as well-known and accomplished as Francis Ngannou, it would not only enhance his legacy but also provide the recognition he feels he deserves. Verhoeven is confident that a win over Ngannou would place him alongside the greatest heavyweights in the world, no matter the sport.

“If you’re open to testing it, let’s test it,” Verhoeven said. “Show me what you got.”

A Highly Anticipated Cross-Sport Showdown

The potential boxing match between Rico Verhoeven and Francis Ngannou has all the makings of a blockbuster event. Verhoeven, as the reigning kickboxing heavyweight champion, and Ngannou, as a former UFC heavyweight champion, would bring their best to the ring, offering fans a thrilling spectacle. The ongoing talks between the fighters and promoters suggest this fight could very well become a reality. If it does, it will not only showcase their individual skills but also elevate kickboxing on a global stage, where it can finally compete with the spotlight enjoyed by boxing and MMA.