Usyk: 'This fight was hard. He did good to prepare'

Oleksandr Usyk praised his opponent after their bout, telling Ring Magazine the clash tested him more than expected. The former undisputed heavyweight champion acknowledged the challenge he faced.

“This fight was hard. He did good to prepare. It was a good fight.”

— Oleksandr Usyk, via Ring Magazine

What Oleksandr Usyk said

Usyk spoke about the Verhoeven fight in comments that highlighted the level of preparation his opponent brought. The Ukrainian has operated at the top of the heavyweight division but rarely offers such frank assessments immediately after a contest.

What it moves

The remarks suggest Usyk found more resistance than many observers anticipated. His acknowledgment of the opponent's work could set up future discussion about his next move and whether he continues at heavyweight or drops back down.

Source: ringmagazine.com. Full Oleksandr Usyk fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.