06/07/2026
Former Oleksandr Usyk opponent Derek Chisora believes Rico Verhoeven was ROBBED after their controversial heavyweight clash at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
What was expected to be an easy night for Usyk turned into one of the toughest fights of his recent career, as kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven shocked fans by going toe-to-toe with the unified heavyweight champion and dominating stretches of the fight despite making his boxing debut.
Everything changed in Round 11 when Usyk landed a huge shot that dropped Verhoeven. Rico beat the count and got back up, but after a quick follow-up barrage, referee Mark Lyson stepped in and waved the fight off — a decision that instantly sparked outrage across the boxing world.
Many fans argued the stoppage came far too early, with some even claiming the bell had already sounded before the referee ended the bout.
Derek Chisora didn’t hold back when asked about the controversy:
🗣️ “Rico won that fight. It was an early stoppage. They robbed that f***ing guy.”
Chisora also said Usyk may have underestimated Verhoeven and didn’t realize he was behind on the cards until it was too late.
🗣️ “I think he didn’t respect him and didn’t realise he was losing. That stoppage was wrong.”
Verhoeven has since addressed whether he plans to officially appeal the result as debate continues to divide boxing fans worldwide.
Did Rico Verhoeven get robbed… or did the referee save him? 👀