(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Boxing Commission Upholds Oleksandr Usyk’s Victory Over Rico Verhoeven
The Middle East Professional Boxing Commission (MEPB) has rejected an appeal filed by Rico Verhoeven following his heavyweight title fight against Oleksandr Usyk, confirming that the result will stand.
Verhoeven challenged the referee’s decision to stop the contest during the later stages of the bout, arguing that the intervention came after the official bell had sounded. The fight took place in Egypt in May and ended with Usyk retaining his heavyweight titles.
After reviewing the case, the commission acknowledged that the stoppage may have occurred moments after the bell. However, it concluded that the timing did not affect the outcome of the contest and did not provide grounds for overturning the result.
According to the commission’s ruling, referee Mark Lyson stated that he had already decided to stop the fight based on his assessment of the action and concerns for fighter safety. The panel noted that referees have full authority to halt a contest whenever they believe it is necessary.
The commission emphasized that there was no evidence of misconduct, bias, fraud, or any improper behavior on the part of the referee. It also stated that the decision was made in good faith with fighter welfare as the primary consideration.
A review of the bout also included evidence from the official timekeeper and medical personnel. While a minor timing discrepancy was noted, officials determined that it did not change the legitimacy of the referee’s decision.
At the time the fight was stopped, the judges’ scorecards showed a closely contested contest, with two cards level and one narrowly favoring Verhoeven.
Medical reports submitted after the fight indicated that Verhoeven was stable following the bout. However, the commission said this did not alter the referee’s responsibility to make an immediate safety assessment during the contest.
Following the decision, Verhoeven expressed disappointment and stated that he believes fans were denied the opportunity to see the fight continue to the final round. He also reiterated his interest in a future rematch with Usyk.
With the appeal dismissed, Usyk remains the recognized heavyweight champion, while discussion continues over the possibility of a rematch between the two fighters.
