Rico Verhoeven Appeals Controversial Stoppage Against Oleksandr Usyk

Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk retained his title after referee Mark Lyson stopped the bout in the final seconds of round 11, a decision made a second after the bell rang. The stoppage sparked criticism from fans and analysts who noted that Verhoeven remained on his feet and was still defending himself.

Rico Verhoeven filed an official appeal, citing the referee’s claim that he did not hear the bell. Verhoeven’s team submitted the protest on the way to the airport and indicated they are seeking a rematch. The controversy also affected Usyk’s future plans, as his next opponent – whether the WBC interim champion Agit Kabayel or a potential return bout with Verhoeven – remains uncertain.

Both fighters and promoters acknowledged the incident, and the appeal process will determine whether the result stands or a new fight is arranged.