Unbeaten heavyweight Alexander Povetkin (22-0, 15 KOs) scored a twelve round unanimous decision over former WBA titleholder Ruslan Chagaev (27-2-1, 17 KOs) to claim the vacant WBA “regular” heavyweight title on Saturday night at the Messehall in Erfurt, Germany. A very close fight over the first five rounds. Chagaev seemed to be coming on in the sixth and seventh. Povetkin had a strong round eight while Chagaev suddenly seemed to be fading as the bout progressed. Povetkin was in total command in rounds ten and eleven as Chagaev looked spent. Knowing he’s behind, Chagaev went on the attack in round twelve, but it was two little, too late. Scores were 117-113, 117-113, 116-112. Of course, Wladimir Klitschko remains the WBA heavyweight “super” champion.

Rumor has it that Povetkin could make his first defense against Evender Holyfield, who was quite visible during fight week.