Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk defeated Dutchman Rico Verhoeven in a fight that took place in Egypt on the night of May 24.

A ring and stands were specially built near the Egyptian pyramids for the bout. Organizers announced that they used technologies to reduce noise impact on the historical monument.

For Usyk, this bout was the first in his professional career against a representative of another martial art. His opponent, Rico Verhoeven, is considered one of the most successful kickboxers of modern times and has held the status of one of the leaders in the heavyweight division for many years. At the same time, the Dutchman's experience in professional boxing is limited – he had only had one fight under boxing rules before this.

At the start of the fight, Verhoeven was active and tried to set a high pace. Usyk mainly worked at a distance, carefully studying his opponent and avoiding unnecessary risks.

In the second round, the Dutchman managed to press the Ukrainian against the ropes and landed several dangerous attacks, but Usyk defended successfully. Verhoeven continued to be the aggressor, while the Ukrainian was more restrained.

In the third round, the opponents exchanged accurate blows. Verhoeven landed several clean shots on Usyk, but in the next three-minute period, the Ukrainian began to respond more actively and landed a series of powerful counter-punches.

In the middle of the fight, Verhoeven continued to press Usyk, landing blows to the body and head. The Ukrainian defended a lot and was outmatched by his opponent in terms of activity.

The turning point came in the 11th round. After an exchange of blows, Usyk landed a powerful right hook, sending the Dutchman to the canvas. Verhoeven managed to get up, but the Ukrainian continued his attack, after which the referee stopped the fight.