Sergey Kovalev Makes A Grand Return, Wins Cruiserweight Debut

Sergey Kovalev (34-4-1) was under the spotlight during his return to the boxing ring against Tervel Pulev (16-1, 13 KOs). The Russian was elbowed in the face by the 39-year-old during the fight.

The former light-heavyweight champion was once unbeatable and the benchmark for all fighters in this division. However, he has now suffered four defeats.

Kovalev tasted defeat twice at the hands of Andre Ward in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Even though he won back the world title, he lost it by knockout to Eleider Alvarez. However, he came back with a bang and retained the title in a rematch.

After a successful title defense against Anthony Yarde in 2019, Kovalev battled against Canelo Alvarez before getting knocked out again.

He was scheduled to fight against Bektemir Melikuziev last year. Unfortunately, he tested positive for synthetic testosterone.

Two and a half years after that painful defeat against Canelo, the 39-year-old is finally back in the ring. In Kovalev’s first bout in the new division, he was resolute and showed complete ring coverage.

“I am back, I am competing and that is the most important thing. I was nervous going into the fight but the experience helped me a lot,” Kovalev said.