Published：May 23, 20:00Last updated：May 24, 07:17

Usyk's Controversial Victory Over Verhoeven

May. 23, 2026 20:00

Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk will face Dutch fighter Rico Verhoeven in a match starting around midnight Moscow time. The fight will not be broadcast on Russian public television but can be viewed on thematic social media groups and the RUTUBE platform.

Summarized

11News

6Media

May. 24, 2026 06:10

World heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk retained his titles thanks to a controversial referee decision in a match against a kickboxer. The event took place on May 24, 2026.

May. 24, 2026 07:17

Boxer Alexander Usyk was trailing Rico Verhoeven on points before the fight was stopped in the 11th round, according to Championship Rounds. Usik won by technical knockout, but Verhoeven plans to appeal the stoppage. Usik remains undefeated in his professional career.

Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk retained his WBC title in a highly debated match against Dutch fighter Rico Verhoeven on May 23, 2026. The fight, held at the iconic Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, ended with an 11th-round technical knockout, sparking widespread controversy over the referee's decision to stop the bout. Verhoeven, a former kickboxer with limited boxing experience, nearly pulled off a major upset before the stoppage occurred with just one second remaining in the penultimate roundRIA Novosti+2.

🥊 The Fight Breakdown

The match saw Verhoeven deliver a surprisingly strong performance, challenging Usyk throughout the rounds. Despite being a novice in professional boxing, Verhoeven managed to outscore Usyk on points before the referee intervened. The stoppage, which saved Usyk from a potential defeat, has been criticized by fans and analysts alikeThe Guardian+2.

🏆 Usyk's Next Move

Following his victory, Usyk confirmed his intention to face the winner of an upcoming fight between British boxers Daniel Dubois and Fabio Wardle. This announcement has fueled speculation about Usyk's future matchups and his continued dominance in the heavyweight divisionRIA Novosti+1.

⚖️ Controversy and Appeal

Verhoeven has announced plans to appeal the referee's decision, claiming the stoppage was unjustified. The controversy surrounding the fight has reignited discussions about fairness in boxing refereeing and the criteria for stopping boutsRIA Novosti+2.

Fabio WardleDaniel DuboisOleksandr UsykRico VerhoevenPyramids of Giza