Usyk, The Ring, IBF, WBA, and WBC heavyweight champion, survived an off night and a massive upset loss when he scored a come-from-behind stoppage win with a second remaining in the 11th round against the novice Dutchman.
Hearn, certainly no stranger to superlatives, declared that Usyk saved himself from being linked to the biggest shocker in the sport’s history.
“I thought Verhoeven was incredible. I gave him hardly any chance in this fight,” Hearn said on social media. “His concentration, belief and IQ were unbelievable for a debutant, basically. Shout out to Peter Fury for the game plan. Usyk struggled with the rhythm but stayed with it and somehow found a way, when the greatest upset in boxing history was looming.
“I had Rico a couple of rounds up going into the 11th. Usyk did what champions do, but for me, the stoppage was early. The bell had basically gone, and Rico was defending and knew exactly where he was. I do think Usyk would have gotten a clearer stoppage in the 12th, or edged out a decision, but us, and definitely Rico, deserved the chance to let it unfold. That was fascinating — well done, men. Two really great guys, and the work ethic, mindset, and desire are inspiring.”
Immediately after the clash concluded, Verhoeven called for a rematch and has since filed an official protest.
Meanwhile, as the conversation shifts toward giving Agit Kabayel his well-earned shot, Usyk’s career-long confidant and ex-promoter, Alexander Krassyuk, has urged him to retire.
Usyk (25-0, 16 KOs) turns 40 in January and, ahead of the Verhoeven matchup, alluded to having two more fights left in his career.
Manouk Akopyan is The Ring’s lead writer. Follow him on X and Instagram: @ManoukAkopyan