Anthony Joshua Says Rico Verhoeven Should Have Continued Against Oleksandr Usyk

Joshua joined growing criticism surrounding the controversial stoppage in Usyk’s heavyweight title fight in Egypt

Anthony Joshua believes Rico Verhoeven should have been allowed to continue against Oleksandr Usyk before the controversial stoppage in the eleventh round Saturday night in Egypt. Joshua added his name to the growing list of fighters and trainers questioning the referee’s decision after the heavyweight title fight ended in dramatic fashion.

The Dutch challenger had surprised many observers with his performance. Despite entering the fight with only two professional boxing rounds on his record, Verhoeven managed to trouble Usyk with pressure, movement, and physical strength.

A large number of fans felt Verhoeven had built a lead before the stoppage. Two judges had the fight even after ten rounds, while the third scored it for Verhoeven.

After the fight, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was asked whether he thought Verhoeven had been winning before the finish.

“Good question. I don’t know. Good fight though, I knew he was a good fighter,” said Joshua to Boxing News.

Joshua gave a much clearer opinion when asked about the stoppage itself and whether Verhoeven should have been allowed to continue into the twelfth round.

“Yeah. Definitely.”

Joshua’s comments add to the growing reaction surrounding the finish, which has divided fans, fighters, and trainers across social media throughout the weekend.

Verhoeven has already suggested his team could appeal the result. One of the biggest points of controversy is whether the stoppage came before or after the bell sounded at the end of the eleventh round.

The fight was expected to be a routine defense for Usyk against a kickboxer making only his third professional boxing appearance. Instead, it became one of the most debated heavyweight fights of the year and has already sparked calls for a rematch.

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