10.5.2024

In a highly anticipated clash, Darryl Verdonk from the Netherlands took on Armenia’s Zhora Akopyan at the K-1 World GP 2024 in Osaka. Verdonk, known for his exceptional conditioning and rapid footwork, came into the fight with 12 wins (8 KOs) and 4 losses. Akopyan, a composed and precise fighter with 29 wins (9 KOs) and 5 losses, cheered on by his sparring partner and mentor Chingiz Allazov. Both fighters geared up for a strategic battle that would test their endurance and skills.

Round 1: After an energetic introduction by Chingiz Allazov, Akopyan entered the ring, while Verdonk exuded calm confidence. They sized each other up before returning to their corners. Verdonk was quick to take the offensive, landing low kicks while Akopyan responded with front kicks. Verdonk’s early aggression paid off, as his kicks and left hook kept Akopyan on the back foot. Though Akopyan briefly rocked Verdonk with a right hook around the 1:50 mark, Verdonk’s rapid combinations controlled the pace.

Round 2: Verdonk maintained his aggressive approach, using middle kicks and hooks from both hands. He adjusted his distance, showing more caution toward Akopyan’s punches, while using teeps to control range. Akopyan countered with low kicks and punches, but Verdonk’s classic Dutch-style combinations of punches and low kicks proved effective. Although Verdonk’s jumping knee attempts missed, his low kicks caused visible damage to Akopyan’s front leg, while the Belarusian fighter’s hands continued to give Verdonk trouble. At the end of the round, both fighters showed signs of fatigue, but Verdonk continued to press the action.

Round 3: Akopyan, perhaps behind on points, pushed forward with more urgency, landing punches as Verdonk’s low kicks seemd less effective. Akopyan baited Verdonk with a lowered hands, hoping to land a counter. Verdonk responded by cornering Akopyan and landing heavy body shots, though Akopyan seemed to be waiting for a counter opportunity. As the round progressed, both fighters circled cautiously, knowing one mistake could decide the outcome. The round ended with neither fighter able to land a decisive blow, and the fight went to an extra round.

Extra Round: Both fighters started out cautiously, a sign of their mutual respect. Verdonk relied on middle roundhouse kicks off both legs, and looping hooks to close the distance, while Akopyan shelled up waited for an opening. Verdonk briefly cornered Akopyan and landed body shots. Verdonk’s non-stop attacks seemed to wear Akopyan down, but Akopyan rallied, pushing Verdonk to the ropes with a minute left. Verdonk responded with a jumping knee and circled out, keeping Akopyan at bay with jabs. Both fighters traded hooks in the final seconds, but neither landed a knockout blow. The round ended with the two fighters embracing, leaving the result to the judges.

Darryl Verdonk secured a 3-0 unanimous decision victory, with all rounds scored 10-9 in his favor. His consistent aggression and ability to control the fight’s tempo earned him the win over the calculating Zhora Akopyan.