Russian heavyweight Aleksandr Povetkin has claimed the vacant WBA “regular” heavyweight title defeating Uzbek fighter Ruslan Chagaev on a unanimous decision by the judges.
The belt was put on the line after Wladimir Klitschko beat WBA champion David Haye to become the WBA Super Champion.
The faster and more active Povetkin showed he was the boss in the ring from the very beginning of the bout in the German city of Erfurt.
The Russian Knight increased his advantage with every round, while former WBA champ Chagaev missed his only chance to come back into the fight.
He managed to shake Povetkin in the sixth round, but didn’t have what it takes to finish his rival off.
The Russian, who showed himself to be an improved boxer with a much better defense, regained control of what was happening in the ring and calmly controlled the fight to claim eventual victory.
Even Chagaev had no illusions about the match’s outcome at the final bell, congratulating Povetkin even before the decision was announced.
All three judges awarded victory to the Russian, who at the age of 31 has lifted his first major pro title.
Povetkin remains undefeated in his 22 appearances in the ring, with 15 knockouts.