Sergey Kovalev Ends Career With Knockout Victory
Sergey Kovalev closed the final chapter of his storied boxing career with a dominant seventh-round stoppage victory over Artur Mann on April 18 2025 in Chelyabinsk Russia. The former unified light heavyweight champion returned to his hometown for one last fight delivering a vintage performance that reminded fans why he was once one of the most feared punchers in the sport.
Kovalev entered the ring with a professional record of 35 wins 5 losses and 1 draw including 29 knockouts. His opponent Mann a seasoned German fighter with a record of 20 wins 4 losses and 1 draw was determined to spoil Kovalev’s farewell bout. However the Russian veteran wasted no time in asserting his dominance.
From the opening bell Kovalev controlled the pace using his signature jab and powerful right hand to keep Mann on the defensive. Mann attempted to counter but struggled to find openings against Kovalev’s precise footwork and relentless pressure. By the fifth round Kovalev’s body shots had visibly slowed Mann setting the stage for the knockout.
Early in the seventh round Kovalev landed a brutal straight right hand that sent Mann crashing to the canvas for the second time in the fight. Although Mann beat the count his corner decided to stop the fight awarding Kovalev the victory. The win marked Kovalev’s 30th career knockout and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest light heavyweight champions of his era.
Kovalev first captured the WBO light heavyweight title in 2013 with a fourth-round knockout of Nathan Cleverly. He later unified the division by defeating Bernard Hopkins in 2014 becoming the WBA IBF and WBO champion. His career featured memorable battles against Andre Ward Jean Pascal and Eleider Alvarez solidifying his reputation as a relentless warrior in the ring.
Sources: BoxingScene, BoxeoMundial, Pravda Germany
Sources
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
