Oleksandr Usyk risks world titles by fighting kickboxer Rico Verhoeven

Oleksandr Usyk faces the prospect of losing his IBF and WBA heavyweight titles after confirming a crossover bout against kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven.

The Ukrainian unified champion has agreed to defend his WBC strap against Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza on 23 May.

However, his decision to pursue a voluntary defence rather than facing mandatory challengers has placed his other world championship belts in jeopardy.

The 39-year-old has already relinquished his WBO crown, with Fabio Wardley elevated to full champion in October.

Pressure mounts on IBF status

Promoter Kalle Sauerland is actively lobbying for the IBF title to be declared vacant so Derek Chisora can challenge for the gold.

The British veteran positioned himself for a title shot by defeating Otto Wallin in an eliminator last February.

Chisora is scheduled to face Deontay Wilder on 4 April, a bout Sauerland believes deserves world title status if the current champion is stripped.

“Oleksandr Usyk has not had one single mandatory defence of the IBF in his reign as heavyweight champion.”

Promoter Kalle Sauerland

Sauerland told Sky Sports: “Given Chisora’s position at the very top of the heavyweight rankings right now, and Wilder’s position as well, it would be an amazing addition for them to be able to fight for the belt.”

“We will be speaking to the IBF to see whether there is something that can resolve the situation and we will be lobbying for such a move.”

Sanctioning bodies seek clarity

Murky waters also surround the WBA title, with contender Murat Gassiev currently seeking clarity on the governing body’s stance regarding the Verhoeven exhibition.

While the WBC has sanctioned the bout in Egypt as a voluntary defence, the other organisations have yet to confirm if their belts will be on the line.

Despite the political maneuvering, Sauerland acknowledged that the former undisputed cruiserweight king deserves a lucrative payday similar to those enjoyed by Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

“The sport is the sport… but at the same time I totally understand that boxing is also a business and the fight with Verhoeven is a fight that will attract a lot of eyeballs,” Sauerland added.

“You could almost say he deserves a payday along those lines as well. But it doesn’t affect that boxing goes on.”