Drama at the foot of the pyramids: Oleksandr Usyk beats Rico Verhoeven after a controversial stoppage!
The grand setting of the Giza pyramids in Egypt provided the backdrop for a fight that will be remembered, though perhaps not for the reasons anyone expected. Last Saturday, Oleksandr Usyk retained his WBC heavyweight world title against Rico Verhoeven. The boxing world is now in uproar after the referee halted the contest in the 11th round, a call many observers felt came far too early.
The Glory champion comes within touching distance of the biggest upset in history
In his move to the noble art, the towering Dutchman put in a brilliant display under the guidance of trainer Peter Fury. Showing real tactical discipline, Verhoeven pushed Usyk to the limit, with several experts even having him ahead on their cards before the fateful 11th round. It was there, just after he hit the canvas moments before the bell, that the official decided enough was enough, robbing the Dutchman of his chance to see it through.
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Eddie Hearn steps in to defend the Dutchman
Watching from ringside on a night that had everyone talking, British promoter Eddie Hearn made no effort to hide his anger at the way it ended. While praising Oleksandr Usyk’s champion’s heart, the Matchroom boss believes Rico Verhoeven was denied the chance to finish the fight properly. “The stoppage was too early. The bell had almost gone and Rico knew exactly where he was,” Hearn said. “I had Verhoeven two rounds up before that session. He absolutely deserved to go the distance.”
A crossover that has already paid off in boxing
For all the disappointment in the Glory champion’s camp, this heroic showing lays down a strong marker for a future in traditional boxing. By standing toe to toe with one of the best fighters on the planet, pound for pound, the 37-year-old instantly earned credibility in front of the wider public. The complaints piling up from the purists may yet force the powers that be toward an immediate rematch, a showdown that already looks explosive after an ending like that.
Credit: Fareed Kotb / Anadolu via AFP
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