In a highly anticipated boxing match held at the Pyramids in Giza, Egypt, Oleksandr Usyk successfully defended his WBC heavyweight title against renowned kickboxer Rico Verhoeven. While Verhoeven, with limited boxing experience, dominated much of the early rounds, Usyk secured a victory via TKO in the 11th round.
The stoppage in the 11th round, following a knockdown and subsequent flurry from Usyk, was deemed early by some commentators and Verhoeven’s corner. Had Verhoeven survived the round, he would have likely needed a knockout in the final round to claim victory, having come remarkably close to an upset. A rematch has already been agreed upon.
Main Card Results:
- Oleksandr Usyk defeated Rico Verhoeven via TKO in Round 11, retaining his Ring and WBC heavyweight titles.
- Hamzah Sheeraz defeated Alem Begic via KO in Round 2 to become the WBO super middleweight world champion.
- Jack Catterall defeated Shakhram Giyasov via unanimous decision.
- Frank Sanchez defeated Richard Torrez Jr. via KO in Round 2.
- Mizuki Hiruta defeated Mai Soliman via unanimous decision, retaining her Ring and WBO junior bantamweight titles.
- Benjamin Mendes Tani defeated Daniel Lapin via TKO in Round 4.
Preliminary Card Results:
- Jamar Talley defeated Basem Mamdouh via KO in Round 2.
- Sultan Almohammed defeated Dedy Imprax via KO in Round 1.
- Mohamed Mabrouk Yehya defeated Ali Sserunkuma via unanimous decision.
- Omar Hikal defeated Michael Kalyalya via KO in Round 3.
