Like many, Eddie Hearn believes that Rico Verhoeven should have gotten the chance to continue in yesterday’s loss to Oleksandr Usyk.
Verhoeven was stopped right at the end of the 11th round after a knockdown and a further flurry from Usyk. Verhoeven has said he wishes he’d had the chance to either recover in the 12th round or at least go out on his shield, and Hearn says the same.
“I thought Rico Verhoeven was incredible last night,” Hearn wrote on social media. “His concentration, belief, and IQ unbelievable for basically a debutant. Shout out 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.”
Judges had the fight even on two cards after 10 rounds, with Rico up on the third. Had the 11th ended, one card would have been even, and two would have had Usyk a bit ahead. Like many others watching, though, Hearn thought Rico had deserved a lead when the fight was stopped.
“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 got 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 and well done, men. Two really great guys and the work ethic, mindset, and despire is inspiring.”