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A boxing match between WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) and Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven (1-0) took place in Egypt near the Pyramids of Giza, UATV English reports.
In the opening rounds, Verhoeven, who was considered the underdog, acted much more actively than the Ukrainian. Usyk absorbed several punches.
Closer to the middle of the fight, Oleksandr managed to level the situation, but Verhoeven effectively used his advantage in height and reach.
In the 11th round, Usyk managed to turn the tide of the fight and claimed victory by technical knockout.
For Usyk, this became the 25th victory of his professional career. Verhoeven suffered the first defeat in his second boxing match under professional boxing rules.
In addition to retaining his title, the Ukrainian won exclusive trophies — a unique King of the Nile belt and a precious pendant.
“I know Ukraine is being bombed right now. My family is hiding and writing ‘I love you,’” those were Usyk’s first words after the fight.
It should be recalled that in his previous bout, Oleksandr Usyk defeated British boxer Daniel Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs) in a rematch and became the undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time.
Earlier, it was reported that Usyk would receive a massive purse for the fight against Verhoeven in Egypt.
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