Usyk Scores 11th Round TKO

Oleksandr Usyk (entering 24-0) entered as the clear favorite—a pound-for-pound elite known for elite footwork, ring IQ, southpaw angles, and late-fight resilience. Verhoeven (1-0 in pro boxing, with that lone bout over a decade earlier) was a massive underdog on paper but brought legitimate heavyweight size (weighing in around 258+ lbs) and proven power from his dominant kickboxing career. 

The fight carried novelty value as a high-profile boxer vs. kickboxer clash, similar to past crossovers but with higher stakes due to Usyk’s title. Promoted heavily by figures like Turki Alalshikh and staged in an iconic location, it drew global attention. Verhoeven spoke enthusiastically about making history near the ancient pyramids. 

Fight Night: A Competitive Surprise

The main event proved far more competitive than many expected. Usyk appeared somewhat flat early, struggling to fully impose his boxing style against Verhoeven’s pressure, reach, and disciplined approach. The Dutchman used his size effectively, landing heavy shots and making it difficult for Usyk to find rhythm in the first half. 

Many observers and scorecards had Verhoeven ahead or even after ten rounds. DAZN’s broadcast and some analysts scored it competitively, with open scoring showing close tallies (e.g., draws or slight edges to Verhoeven). 

Round 11 turned the tide dramatically. Usyk, known for his championship heart, dug deep and unleashed a surge. He dropped Verhoeven with a sharp uppercut late in the round. Verhoeven beat the count but was immediately under fire. Referee Mark Lyson stepped in at 2:59 of Round 11—with just one second remaining—stopping the contest as Usyk swarmed with combinations. Usyk improved to 25-0 (16 KOs), while Verhoeven fell to 1-1 in boxing. 

The Controversy: Stoppage Debate

The finish ignited immediate debate. Critics argued the stoppage was premature: Verhoeven was on his feet, the fight was close on cards (reports noted judges at 95-95, 95-95, and 95-94 for Verhoeven at the time), and only seconds remained in the round. Verhoeven’s corner and some broadcast voices protested. Many online and among fans called it a “robbery” or overly protective, suggesting Verhoeven deserved a chance in the 12th round. 

Defenders of the stoppage pointed to Verhoeven’s visible fatigue, the damage from the knockdown, and Usyk’s finishing flurry. They argued the referee prevented unnecessary punishment against a fighter whose legs appeared compromised. Usyk himself showed respect post-fight, praising Verhoeven’s performance. 

This controversy echoes broader discussions in boxing about referee intervention, fighter safety, and the optics of title fights—especially high-profile ones where narratives of protection or corruption can quickly emerge.

Undercard Highlights

The undercard featured solid action supporting the historic main event: 

• Hamzah Sheeraz def. Alem Begic via KO (Round 2, 2:33) — Impressive power display.

• Jack Catterall def. Shakhram Giyasov via unanimous decision (118-109, 119-108, 116-111).

• Frank Sanchez def. Richard Torrez Jr. via KO (Round 2, 0:55) — Brutal uppercut finish.

• Mizuki Hiruta def. Mai Soliman via unanimous decision (98-92 x2, 99-91).

• Other bouts included Benjamin Mendes Tani def. Daniel Lapin via TKO (Round 4).

These provided quality depth, though the night centered on the main event drama.