The stage is set for an unforgettable night of boxing as Sergey Kovalev, one of the most feared punchers of the modern era, steps into the ring for his final fight, live from Chelyabinsk, Russia. Fans around the world can tune in for free via Boxing News on YouTube and Facebook, marking the culmination of a 16-year career that has left an indelible mark on the world of boxing. Kovalev, known affectionately as “Krusher,” will face Artur Mann, a formidable opponent from Germany, in the main event of the IBA Champions tournament. The former unified light-heavyweight world champion has had a storied career, replete with high-voltage knockouts and unforgettable nights that have etched his name in the annals of boxing history. From his 2009 debut to his emphatic destruction of Nathan Cleverly in 2013 that made him WBO champion, Kovalev quickly built a reputation as one of the sport’s most dangerous men. He went on to unify world titles and defeated legends like Bernard Hopkins, while earning notable wins against Jean Pascal and Eleider Alvarez. His two closely contested losses to Andre Ward in 2016 and 2017 marked the beginning of a decline, but his name remained a feared one in the division.
Key Figures
- Al Siesta, CEO of IBA Pro
- Sergey Kovalev
- Artur Mann
- Bernard Hopkins
- Andre Ward
The fight will air globally via Boxing News, the world’s largest independent boxing media outlet, beginning at 5:30pm UK time. Russian viewers can tune in on Match! TV. The main event will take place at 1:30AM Chelyabinsk time, 9:30PM UK time, 4:30PM ET, and 1:30PM PT.
Fight Details
| Fight Card | Opponent | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Sergey Kovalev | Artur Mann | 35-5-1 (29 KOs) |
| Timur Bibilov | Joshua Wasike | 7-0-0 |
| Akhmadshokh Makhamadshoevs | Artem Pugach | 3-0-1 |
| Albina Moldazhanova | Nuriyat Alibekova | Debut |
Quotes from the Fighters
“I am looking forward to having the final fight of my career here in my home of Chelyabinsk. People are excited because it has been a long time since I have been in the ring. Artur Mann is a strong opponent for me to face, so I am also excited to put on a show for those who have supported me in my career.”
“I have been fortunate to travel and make many fans from around the world, so for my supporters in the United States and United Kingdom, it pleases me that they will see my final fight for free on the Boxing News YouTube channel.”
“IBA Pro is proud and honoured to showcase the final fight of Sergey’s legendary career. Sergey is a fighter who has always brought tremendous value and excitement to fans across the globe, which is why it was so important for us at IBA Pro to make this show available for free internationally on the Boxing News YouTube channel – so fans from all over the world can tune in and witness Krusher’s final chapter!”
A Night to Remember
The fight card is stacked with exciting matchups, featuring some of the region’s top emerging talent and potential stars of the future. Fans will have the opportunity to witness the next generation of boxing talent shine, while also paying their respects to Kovalev’s illustrious career. In a special gesture, the fight will be broadcast for free on the Boxing News YouTube channel, allowing fans from around the world to tune in and witness Kovalev’s final chapter.
