Imagine the UFC landing one of the most dominant kickboxers in history for their Paramount debut—it would’ve been a game-changer. But here’s where it gets controversial: the UFC tried and failed to sign Rico Verhoeven, the legendary heavyweight kickboxer, for their UFC 324 card in January 2024. According to UFC executive Hunter Campbell, during testimony in an ongoing antitrust lawsuit, the promotion made a play for Verhoeven, who recently parted ways with GLORY Kickboxing and expressed interest in MMA. However, the deal fell apart when Verhoeven reportedly demanded 'over a million dollars,' opting instead to explore boxing opportunities. This revelation came to light when Judge Richard Boulware questioned Campbell about the UFC’s efforts to compete with other promotions for top talent. Campbell also mentioned another missed opportunity involving a 'Polish fighter' (likely Roberto Soldic), who was expected to join the UFC but signed elsewhere, forcing the promotion to reshuffle their plans. Verhoeven’s potential move to MMA had fans buzzing, especially given his staggering 66-10 kickboxing record and status as a modern-day great. At 36, his next career move remains a mystery, leaving fans and industry insiders alike speculating about where he’ll land. And this is the part most people miss: Verhoeven’s decision to pursue boxing instead of MMA raises questions about the UFC’s ability to attract crossover stars. Is the UFC losing its edge in the fight for top talent, or is Verhoeven’s price tag simply too high? Let’s spark a debate—do you think the UFC should’ve met Verhoeven’s demands, or was this a smart business move? Share your thoughts in the comments!
