In a dramatic conclusion to his illustrious boxing career, Sergey Kovalev defeated Artur Mann in a farewell fight held in Chelyabinsk on April 19, 2025. The former world champion, known as "Krusher," ended the bout with a technical knockout in the seventh round, marking his 36th professional victory.
The fight, part of the IBA Pro 2 tournament, showcased Kovalev's enduring skill and tenacity despite his age of 42. In the second round, Kovalev sent Mann to the canvas with a powerful left hook, but the German boxer managed to recover and continued to fight, demonstrating resilience and determination.
For four additional rounds, Mann applied pressure and posed challenges to Kovalev, utilizing effective right-hand strikes. However, the tide turned in the seventh round when Kovalev unleashed a flurry of punches, again knocking Mann down. Although Mann rose to his feet, his corner made the decision to stop the fight, handing Kovalev the victory.
With this win, Kovalev claimed the IBA Intercontinental title in the first heavyweight division, adding to his impressive collection of accolades. Throughout his career, Kovalev has held championship titles from the WBA (Super), IBF, and WBO in the light heavyweight division.
Kovalev’s journey in professional boxing has been remarkable. He compiled a record of 36 wins, including 30 by knockout, alongside 5 losses and 1 draw. Notably, he was the first Russian to be named the best boxer of the year by The Ring magazine in 2014. He also ranked third in HBO's list of the most exciting boxers in the world in 2015.
His fame grew through notable fights against legendary opponents such as Bernard Hopkins, Andre Ward, and Saul Alvarez. In 2019, however, Kovalev lost the WBO title to Alvarez by knockout in the 11th round, a defeat that marked the beginning of a tumultuous period in his life.
Following that loss, Kovalev faced significant personal and professional challenges, including a 2.5-year hiatus from the ring due to legal issues and doping allegations. In 2020, he was sentenced to three years of probation for sexual harassment and assault. A positive doping test in January 2021 temporarily sidelined him from the sport, but he returned to the ring in May 2022, winning against Tervel Pulev by decision.
Despite a setback in May 2024, where he lost to Robin Safar, Kovalev's final match against Mann was a testament to his resilience and dedication to the sport. The fight not only highlighted his skills but also served as a fitting farewell for a boxer who has left an indelible mark on the world of boxing.
As Kovalev steps away from the ring, he leaves behind a legacy that includes not just titles and victories, but also a journey filled with highs and lows that many aspiring boxers can learn from. His career will be remembered not just for the championships but for the character he displayed both inside and outside the ring.
In the aftermath of the fight, Kovalev expressed gratitude for his supporters and reflected on his career, stating that he was proud to have fought at the highest levels of the sport. His achievements and challenges have made him a prominent figure in boxing history.
As the boxing world looks ahead, the impact of Sergey Kovalev's career will undoubtedly continue to resonate, inspiring future generations of fighters. His farewell match was not just an end but a celebration of a remarkable journey in professional boxing.
