In a highly anticipated crossover boxing match at the Pyramids of Giza, Oleksandr Usyk successfully defended his WBC heavyweight title against GLORY’s longest-reigning heavyweight kickboxing champion, Rico Verhoeven. The bout, scheduled for 12 rounds, concluded dramatically in the 11th round with Usyk securing a Technical Knockout (TKO) victory.
Verhoeven, the “King of Kickboxing,” started the fight strong, impressively dominating the early rounds with powerful body shots and precise punches that seemed to unsettle the champion. For much of the fight, Verhoeven maintained a higher output and accuracy, keeping Usyk on the defensive and controlling the distance. Round after round, Verhoeven showcased remarkable stamina and skill, landing significant combinations and even staggering Usyk at points.
However, as the fight progressed into the later rounds, Usyk began to show his championship resilience and tactical prowess. Despite Verhoeven’s sustained pressure and apparent dominance for the majority of the bout, Usyk found his rhythm. In a pivotal moment in the 11th round, Usyk managed to knock down Verhoeven. While Verhoeven beat the count, Usyk seized the opportunity, launching a decisive offensive to secure the TKO victory in the final minute of the round.
The official decision declared Oleksandr Usyk the winner by TKO in the 11th round, retaining his Ring and WBC heavyweight titles. The fight was a testament to both athletes’ skills, with Verhoeven giving a valiant performance that pushed the pound-for-pound boxing king to his limits before Usyk’s late-round surge sealed the win.