Usyk stuns fans with emotional post-fight message about Ukrainians in shelters
Oleksandr Usyk (photo: Getty Images)
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk secured a stoppage victory over Dutchman Rico Verhoeven, defending his world heavyweight championship. The fight, which took place in the historic heart of Egypt, ended in the 11th round, according to Usyk's in‑ring flash interview after the bout.
Drama in the ring and the judges' scorecards
The bout proved to be extremely difficult for the Ukrainian champion. Through 10 rounds, the judges' scorecards showed a majority draw.
Two referees had the fight even — 95‑95, while the third favoured Verhoeven — 96‑94.
However, in the 11th round, Usyk seized the initiative and sent his opponent to the canvas with a hard knockdown.
The Dutchman managed to get up, but after a prolonged follow‑up attack by the Ukrainian, the referee stepped in and stopped the fight, awarding Usyk the victory by technical knockout.
This triumph marked the 25th win of Oleksandr Usyk's professional career (25‑0, 15 KOs).
The Ukrainian boxer successfully defended his championship titles and once again confirmed his status as the leader of the heavyweight division, remaining undefeated.
Usyk's first words: about family and the shelling of Ukraine
Immediately after the fight, Oleksandr Usyk, in a flash interview from the ring, emotionally addressed the world, reminding everyone that at the moment of his triumph, Ukraine was under a massive aerial attack by Russia.
"For me, it's very important. But I know right now in Ukraine ... my people and my country.,. my people now sitting in bomb shelters, my family, my daughter too," Oleksandr said.
"My daughter sent me message: ' Papa (daddy), I love you, you will win.' Rico, you are an amazing fighter. Thank you so much. My team, I love you, you are the best. Kateryna, my wife, I love you, you're my life, you're my heart," the champion stated.
The Ukrainian boxer also thanked his opponent for a worthy fight and confessed his love to his wife, Kateryna Usyk.
Oleksandr also answered without unnecessary explanation when asked whether he would have won without the knockout and what he needed to secure the victory.
The boxer said that he threw his right uppercut, followed by a flurry of punches, and repeatedly thanked God and Jesus Christ, expressing his gratitude.
What's next: a rematch and a new opponent
The head of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, Turki Alalshikh, has already announced grand plans for the Ukrainian's future.
According to him, the next step should be a fight between Oleksandr Usyk and German heavyweight Agit Kabayel, which could take place in Istanbul.
Only after that bout do the organizers plan to arrange a massive rematch between Usyk and Rico Verhoeven.
