Rico Verhoeven, long‑time Glory heavyweight king, demanded an immediate rematch after his stunning 11‑round performance against Oleksandr Usyk in Giza. The Ukrainian, unbeaten and former undisputed champion at cruiserweight and heavyweight, saw the bout stopped controversially before the 12th round. Verhoeven argues the fans never got a proper conclusion and wants the story finished. Both fighters earned over $5 million in purse.

Usyk’s camp faces a scheduling dilemma. The WBC obliges him to defend the title against mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel, while promoters eye a lucrative showdown with the Dutch kickboxer. Trainer Gary Logan warned that a rematch would benefit Verhoeven’s bank balance more than his credibility, noting Usyk has already beaten elite heavyweights twice, including Fury and Joshua. A win would also boost Verhoeven’s boxing credibility.

Critics like undercard winner Hamzah Sheeraz claim Verhoeven cannot replicate his performance and that Usyk’s legacy remains intact. At 39, Usyk is approaching an age when most champions retire, yet Logan believes his legacy is already secured and suggests he consider stepping away. The next fight will determine whether the heavyweight king adds another chapter or bows out. Either outcome will shape the division’s hierarchy.