The controversial Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven fight last month has sparked discussions regarding referee decisions in boxing. The referee, Mark Lyson, informed the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission (MEPB) that he had seen sufficient reasons to stop the bout in the 11th round before the official bell rang.

Rico Verhoeven, 37, who lost the match in May, appealed the result, arguing that the fight ended after the bell had sounded. However, the commission ruled that while the fight concluded post-bell, it did not affect the outcome. Verhoeven's formal protest was ultimately dismissed.

In the fight, Verhoeven appeared to be on the brink of a significant upset against the boxing great Usyk. Despite being knocked down, he managed to beat the count. Yet, a late surge from Usyk prompted referee Lyson to intervene, a decision that many considered harsh on Verhoeven.

The MEPB emphasized that Lyson acted in good faith, prioritizing boxer safety. The ruling stated:

• Lyson expressed, "I decided I wanted to stop the contest... I had already seen enough."
• The referee retains full authority to stop the fight at any time.
• Timing discrepancies noted by official timekeeper Brad William did not warrant overturning the decision.

The scorecards at the fight's conclusion read 95-95, 95-95, and 96-94 in favor of Verhoeven. Medical evidence confirmed that Verhoeven was stable after the match, reinforcing Lyson's safety assessment.

Verhoeven expressed disappointment that fans missed the chance to see a 12th round and called for an immediate rematch.