Usyk to win on points? Johnny Nelson doesn’t expect a knockout against Rico Verhoeven

Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven is not on the same level as Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) in boxing, but thanks to his strength and the right tactics, he has a very good chance of lasting the full 12-round distance in their upcoming fight.

This is the opinion of former heavyweight world champion, Britain’s Johnny Nelson.

“I don’t think there will be a stoppage. Usyk will probably win on points,” Nelson predicted. “I think Rico will come into the fight in excellent physical condition and will be very strong. Yes, technically he is below Usyk, but I think he is capable of going the distance.”

Johnny predicts that Verhoeven will likely use a lot of clinching and rely on his physical strength. “Maybe the referee will step in and stop the fight, but I don’t see any kind of full-scale battle here.”

The fight between Usyk and Verhoeven will take place on May 23 in Egypt.