Sergey Kovalev’s Boxing Journey: Triumphs, Setbacks, and a Comeback at Cruiserweight
Sergey Kovalev (35-4-1, 29 KOs), the hard-hitting Russian boxer, has experienced both the highs and lows of the sport. The former unified light-heavyweight world champion has carved out an impressive resume, boasting victories over notable names like Nathan Cleverly, Bernard Hopkins, and Jean Pascal.
Despite these accomplishments, Kovalev’s career has also been marked by setbacks. His two losses against Andre Ward in 2016 and 2017 were controversial, with the second fight ending in an eighth-round stoppage partially influenced by low blows. More recently, in 2019, Kovalev suffered a brutal knockout defeat at the hands of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, losing his WBO world light-heavyweight title.
“I don’t want to make any predictions; I just want to go into the ring, show my best and show what I can do.” – Sergey Kovalev
Following the Canelo loss, Kovalev appeared to hit a rough patch, fighting just once in the past two years – a unanimous points victory over Tervel Pulev in May 2022. Now, at the age of 41, the veteran boxer is set to return to the ring in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he will take on the unbeaten cruiserweight Robin Sirwan Safar (16-0, 12 KOs) in a 10-round bout.
Kovalev remains cautious about making any predictions, stating, “I don’t want to make any predictions; I just want to go into the ring, show my best and show what I can do.” The former champion has been diligently training for this fight, with a 10-week camp and ongoing work in the gym, indicating his determination to showcase his skills once again.
“I have done a 10-week training camp for this fight. But I have also been doing the sparring, workouts and physical conditioning since my last fight two years ago. I have still been working and learning in the gym, so I hope I can show those watching my best boxing possible.” – Sergey Kovalev
This comeback fight at cruiserweight presents an opportunity for Kovalev to regain the momentum and prove his worth in the sport. Boxing enthusiasts will be eager to see if the veteran can recapture the form that made him a unified world champion and one of the most formidable light-heavyweights in the world.
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