Rico Verhoeven Reacts to Usyk Appeal Verdict: Calls for Rematch

Rico Verhoeven has expressed his disappointment following the confirmation of his unsuccessful appeal against Oleksandr Usyk's victory. The appeal stemmed from their heavyweight clash at the Pyramids of Giza, where Verhoeven was knocked down in the 11th round, leading to a stoppage that many fans deemed premature.

In his statement, Verhoeven revealed that the commission concluded the bell had already rung before referee Mark Lyson waved off the fight. He stated, “On 24 May, we filed a formal protest because we genuinely believed there was a serious question around the way the fight was stopped.” The commission's findings included confirmation from the official timekeeper and ringside doctor that Verhoeven showed no signs of confusion post-fight.

Despite the ruling, Verhoeven maintained his respect for Usyk, calling him “one of the greatest fighters of this generation.” He emphasized the need for a rematch, stating, “The fans were denied a 12th round. After everything we’d both put into that fight, they deserved to see how it ended.”

As for Usyk's next steps, he may face either Verhoeven in a rematch or WBC mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel, leaving fans eager for the heavyweight showdown's future.