For the first time in over 4,100 days, Rico Verhoeven is no longer GLORY heavyweight champion.
In a stunning and sudden statement posted Thursday on social media, the all-time kickboxing great has announced he’s vacated the title he won in 2023.
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“After more than twelve years, fifteen world title victories, and countless unforgettable nights, I’ve decided to vacate my GLORY Heavyweight World Title,” Verhoeven wrote. “I joined GLORY in 2012, and from that moment on, I gave everything to this sport and to the organisation. Together, we built something truly special sold out arenas, broke records, gave fans incredible fights and moments that helped shape the history of kickboxing.”
Verhoeven, 36, did not shed light on what his next move is, signing off with a cryptic, “It’s not a goodbye, it’s an ‘until we meet again.'”
However, according to a report from Ariel Helwani, the Dutch combat sports legend has already engaged in talks about making the jump to MMA, including discussions with the UFC. Helwani also added Verhoeven does not have any promotional ties or matching periods.
“He has not yet decided what his next move will be after vacating the GLORY heavyweight title, I’m told,” Helwani wrote.
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Verhoeven is considered by many as one of the greatest kickboxers ever. He holds a 60-10 professional kickboxing record with 20 knockouts and 15 GLORY title defenses.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Rico Verhoeven suddenly vacates of GLORY title; UFC talks initiated
