Oleksandr Usyk-Rico Verhoeven: IBF joins WBC, WBA in permitting showcase bout

In a surprising move, the IBF has joined the WBC and WBA in sanctioning the upcoming showcase bout between unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven. This unprecedented approval from boxing's major governing bodies paves the way for the cross-sport contest, set to take place in just over a week. The decision has sparked considerable debate within the boxing world, as a reigning world champion faces a competitor from a different discipline.