Rico Verhoeven's UFC Offer: Was It Worth Considering?
The world of combat sports is abuzz with Rico Verhoeven's recent decision to step into the boxing ring, leaving many fans curious about the details of his free agency. In a surprising revelation, Verhoeven disclosed the UFC's attempt to sign him, but he ultimately chose a different path.
The UFC's Offer:
Rico Verhoeven, the renowned kickboxer, shed light on the UFC's proposal, stating it was 'decent'. However, he hinted that the offer might have been more appealing than some would assume. When compared to the boxing opportunities, the UFC's proposal fell short of Verhoeven's expectations.
Choosing Boxing Over UFC:
Verhoeven had a choice between a high-profile crossover fight against Anthony Joshua, a renowned boxer, or a transition to the UFC to face Derrick Lewis. He candidly admitted that while Lewis is an incredible fighter within the UFC, the offer didn't quite match the stature he was seeking. The decision was clear: he opted for the Joshua fight, leaving the UFC offer behind.
The Financial Aspect:
Although Verhoeven didn't disclose the exact figures, he confirmed that the UFC's offer was comparable to what he earned in GLORY kickboxing, where he became a star. He praised the UFC for their respectful approach and a fair offer, contrary to some online speculation. However, he felt that considering his status in martial arts and his earnings in GLORY, the UFC offer wasn't quite as enticing.
A Bold Move:
At 36, Verhoeven is stepping into the boxing world with an impressive 1-0 professional record. He will face the undefeated heavyweight boxing champion, Oleksandr Usyk, on May 23 in Giza, Egypt. This move has sparked debates among fans and experts, with many considering Verhoeven the greatest heavyweight kickboxer of modern times. His departure from kickboxing, where he held a remarkable 66-10 record, has left the combat sports community intrigued. But here's where it gets controversial—was the UFC offer truly not up to par, or did Verhoeven miss a unique opportunity?
What do you think? Did Verhoeven make the right call by choosing boxing over the UFC? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
