Canelo makes knockout prediction for Usyk vs Rico Verhoeven: “He’s going to win”

Canelo Alvarez has delivered his verdict ahead of Oleksandr Usyk‘s clash with Rico Verhoeven.

The Ukrainian defends his WBC heavyweight title against kickboxing legend Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza tomorrow night, in a bout that has caused controversy due to the perceived mismatch that many fans are expecting.

While he may be one of the best to ever compete in kickboxing, Verhoeven has fought as a professional boxer just once, coming way back in April 2014 when he defeated Janos Finfera.

Usyk on the other hand is one of the greatest heavyweights of recent times, having beaten Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois all on two occasions each, establishing himself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.

Another man who knows what it is like to be seen as one of the pound-for-pound best is Canelo, who will be sat ringside on Saturday to witness the clash between Usyk and Verhoeven.

Speaking to DAZN, the Mexican superstar revealed he is expecting an easy night’s work for the Ukrainian.

“Usyk is going to win for sure. Knockout, maybe four or five rounds.”

Canelo then explained just why he he is such a big fan of Usyk.

“I love Usyk. I think he’s one of the greats. He’s a good guy and I always enjoy the time when I have the opportunity to see him. I don’t show myself to many events but when I see him it’s a really good time. I admire him. He’s very disciplined and I’m glad to know him.”

An expected win for Usyk could lead to a future clash against the likes of Agit Kabayel or Moses Itauma next, while Canelo is set to return to action in September when he challenges Christian Mbilli for the WBC super-middleweight title.