Usyk opponent Verhoeven 'not a normal man' - Hearn

Here is a story sports fans will want to follow: Usyk opponent Verhoeven 'not a normal man' - HearnImage source, ReutersImage caption, Unified world champion Oleksandr Usyk (left) is a huge favourite against challenger Rico Verhoeven ByKal SajadBBC Sport boxing journalistPublished28 minutes agoPromoter Eddie Hearn described Rico Verhoeven as "not a normal man" before the boxing novice's world title shot against heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk in Egypt on Saturday. Ukrainian Usyk - widely considered the greatest heavyweight of his era - will put his WBC title on the line against kickboxing legend Verhoeven. The bout, which will take place at the foot of the pyramids of Giza, is widely viewed as a major mismatch - with critics questioning why a world title is at stake.

"The fight on paper is an impossible mountain to climb for Rico Verhoeven," Matchroom promoter Hearn said. "No, I'll rephrase that. But the reason he has accomplished what he's accomplished, and the reason he's done what he's done, is because he's not a normal man.

Match Details

"Secrets, acting & 16 years unbeaten - in camp with Usyk Published14 hours agoUsyk v Verhoeven - all you need to know Published2 days agoVerhoeven is a huge underdog and victory over Usyk would rank among the biggest shocks in boxing history, arguably surpassing Buster Douglas' stunning win over Mike Tyson in Tokyo in 1990. The Dutchman won 66 of his 76 kickboxing fights and has not lost in more than 4,000 days. But the 37-year-old has had only one professional boxing bout - a stoppage win over a journeyman 12 years ago.

Usyk, meanwhile, is one of boxing's most decorated fighters; an Olympic gold medallist, undisputed cruiserweight champion and two-time undisputed heavyweight champion who remains unbeaten in 24 professional bouts. The 39-year-old wore a striking Egyptian-inspired white and gold outfit, complete with a cape and draped sleeves, though his answers did not match the extravagance of his attire. At one stage, he even appeared to be on a video call during the media-only event.

When it was put to him that Verhoeven believes his lack of experience could bring an element of surprise Usyk has never faced before, the champion replied: "I have no idea how many rounds this will go. I'm not sad with 12 rounds. When I have the chance, I'll do it.

"The contest will count as a defence of Usyk's WBA 'Super' title and he would also lose his IBF belt if defeated, although Verhoeven is not eligible to win either championship. Oleksandr Usyk v Rico Verhoeven Listen on SoundsListen to radio and follow live text commentary from 22:00 BST on Saturday, 23 May on Radio 5 Live, Sounds and Sport website and app. Outpointing Usyk would be the 'ultimate' Figure caption, Oleksandr Usyk on fighting Rico Verhoeven, Anthony Joshua and world title defenceHearn's promotional energy rescued an otherwise uneventful news conference that lacked tension between the fighters.

The story has climbed to the top of the sports agenda, with fans and analysts following closely.