Dutch kickboxer Verhovens to appeal after controversial stoppage of fight with Ukrainian champion Usik

On 25 May 2026, a bout between Dutch kickboxer Riko Verhovens and Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usik took place in Giza, Egypt. In the 11th round Usik delivered a series of blows that left Verhovens dazed, after which the ring referee halted the contest, awarding Usik a technical knockout. The decision sparked outrage because two of the three judges had recorded a 95‑95 tie, while the third had Verhovens ahead 96‑94. Verhovens contends the stoppage was premature, saying he could have continued into a potential 12th round, and he is considering filing an appeal. Appeals that overturn boxing results are extremely rare.