The rivals put on a historic display in front of the Pyramids of Giza.
Rico Verhoeven came within touching distance of producing one of the greatest upsets in boxing history against Oleksandr Usyk this weekend.
In just his second appearance in the professional ranks, the Dutchman delivered a stunning display against the unified heavyweight champion and threatened to rip up the script with a fearless performance.
Verhoeven produced one of the most explosive and memorable displays seen in recent years, pushing Usyk all the way before the contest was brought to a dramatic conclusion.
But his challenge ended in controversial fashion, with the stoppage decision sparking fierce debate across the boxing world in the aftermath.
Despite controlling large periods of the fight, the kickboxing superstar was only level on two of the judges’ scorecards at 95-95 heading into the closing stages.
Judge Pascale Precupio, meanwhile, had Verhoeven narrowly ahead at 96-94 before the fight was stopped in the penultimate round.
Speaking post-fight, Rico Verhoeven said: “Yeah, of course, I thought it was an early stoppage, but in the end, it’s not up to me.
“But still, I thought it was a little bit early. I thought the referee knew that we’re nearly at the end of the round.
“So let me go out on my shield or let the bell go.
“But it’s not up to me, and I was already super thankful for the opportunity.”
Want to get the latest boxing news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
