‘Run over by a truck’ – Rico Verhoeven shows off black eye from sparring for Oleksandr Usyk fight

Rico Verhoeven has suffered a black eye in training, but is satisfied with his preparations to face Oleksandr Usyk.

Verhoeven will get the shot of a lifetime later this month as he prepares to take on unified heavyweight champion Usyk.

AFP

The kickboxing legend will challenge for the WBC title on May 23 in just his second ever fight in the traditional boxing ranks.

Verhoeven is preparing to cause one of sport’s biggest ever upsets and has been in training camp with coach Peter Fury.

And it is clear he is leaving no stone unturned judging by his latest update.

He posted a video of himself addressing the fans, where he sported a nasty black eye that he clearly sustained in sparring.

But despite the clear mark from his hard rounds, Verhoeven is brimming with confidence.

And he has revealed he is on weight and excited for the opportunity.

“It looks like I’m wearing make-up but I’m bruised up,” he said.

“It looks and feels like I’ve been run over by a truck. It’s been a lot.

“But a quick update, we are putting in so much work and it’s starting to pay off.

“It’s been one hell of a journey but I’m super thankful.”

Verhoeven then gave more positive news, revealing he is at his target weight for the clash.

Verhoeven – behind the scenes for Usyk

For Verhoeven, it will be the biggest challenge of his career as he looks to step out of his comfort zone.

He is trying his best to prepare for the insurmountable task of facing the undefeated Ukrainian.

The veteran has been sparring British heavyweight Hughie Fury among others to prepare for the clash.

And he believes his time to make history is now.

He told talkSPORT.com: “It is a new challenge for me and I’m so excited.

Boxing schedule

For all the upcoming fights and results this year, check out talkSPORT.com’s  boxing schedule.

“I’ve been world champion within my division of combat sports, but when I become champion in boxing I’ll make history.

“Yeah it’d be incredible, it could be one of the biggest upsets in sports history.

“What an opportunity we have, for me this is where I’m focused right now.”