The WBA has officially greenlit Oleksandr Usyk's upcoming heavyweight title defense against Rico Verhoeven, set for May 23 at the iconic pyramids of Giza in Egypt—but there's a catch. The sanctioning body has laid out strict terms that could reshape the heavyweight landscape.

Unified champion Usyk, 39, will look to extend his perfect 24-0 professional record against Verhoeven, a former Glory kickboxing world champion known for his devastating striking. However, while the WBA has confirmed Usyk's "Super" heavyweight belt is on the line, the title itself won't be at stake for Verhoeven, who currently lacks a WBA ranking.

"Should Usyk emerge victorious, the bout will officially count as a successful title defense," the WBA stated. "However, the title itself will not be at stake for Verhoeven, as he is currently not ranked by the sanctioning body."

This creates an intriguing scenario: if Verhoeven pulls off the upset, the WBA would review Usyk's status and determine the heavyweight championship's next steps. The IBF has yet to comment on whether it will allow Usyk to defend that belt as well, leaving further uncertainty.

Usyk, who has conquered Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Daniel Dubois across multiple fights, defended his decision to face the kickboxing star. "I should be able to do what I want," he said, referencing his legendary resume that includes three stints as undisputed champion (twice at heavyweight, once at cruiserweight) and an Olympic gold medal from the 2012 London Games.

Verhoeven, 37, brings a fearsome reputation from the kickboxing ring but has only one professional boxing match to his name—a 2014 bout. The WBA has indicated that if he becomes the first man to defeat Usyk, he could enter their heavyweight rankings.

For fans and gear enthusiasts alike, this clash between boxing royalty and kickboxing royalty promises to be a spectacle. Whether it's a legitimate title fight or a high-stakes exhibition, the outcome could ripple through the division for years to come.