This Friday, April 18, former unified light-heavyweight world champion Sergey Kovalev (35-5-1, 29 KOs) will fight one last time in his hometown of Chelyabinsk, Russia. The bout against Artur Mann (22-4-0) will be streamed live and free worldwide on the Boxing News YouTube and Facebook pages, starting at 4:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM PT / 9:30 PM UK time.
Kovalev’s Final Chapter
At 42, Kovalev closes a career that stamped him as one of the sport’s most feared punchers. From his brutal 2013 demolition of Nathan Cleverly to unifying world titles and outclassing legends like Bernard Hopkins, Kovalev became a force in the 175lb division.
Although back-to-back losses to Andre Ward in 2016-2017 signaled a shift, Kovalev remained a dangerous opponent. His last fight was a points loss to Robin Sirwan Safar nearly a year ago in Riyadh.
Now, he gets a proper farewell in front of a hometown crowd.
“I am looking forward to having the final fight of my career here in my home of Chelyabinsk,” Kovalev said. “It pleases me that my supporters in the United States and United Kingdom will see my final fight for free.”
Fight Night Details
Main Event Ring Walk Times:
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1:30 AM Chelyabinsk time (April 19)
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9:30 PM UK time (April 18)
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4:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM PT (April 18)
Streaming:
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Live on Boxing News YouTube and Boxing News Facebook
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Russian viewers can tune in on Match! TV
Full Fight Card
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Sergey Kovalev (35-5-1) vs. Artur Mann (22-4-0) – Light Heavyweights (Main Event)
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Timur Bibilov (7-0-0) vs. Joshua Wasike (5-0-0) – Heavyweights
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Akhmadshokh Makhmadshoev (3-0-1) vs. Artem Pugach (3-7-4) – Super Lightweights
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Albina Moldazhanova (debut) vs. Nuriyat Alibekova (debut) – Featherweights
Promoter’s Message
Al Siesta, CEO of IBA Pro, emphasized making Kovalev’s farewell accessible worldwide:
“Sergey is a fighter who has always brought tremendous value and excitement. That’s why it was so important to make this show free internationally. Fans can also catch rising talents from the region – the next generation is already taking shape.”
Don’t miss the final bell for one of boxing’s most vicious punchers.
Watch it FREE — Friday, April 18, on Boxing News YouTube.
Oh wowwwww, what a big deal 😒😒 This whole ‘last fight’ thing is soooo overrated now… Like, does anyone even care anymore? Just stop already!! 😂💤
‘Kovalev vs Mann? Really? It’s like watching two old men fighting over the last slice of pizza at a party 😂. But good luck, I guess…’
It’s interesting how a fighter like Kovalev can be both celebrated and critiqued. His career has ups and downs, reflecting the unpredictable nature of sports. Let’s see how he performs in his final bout!
@Layla02 Totally agree! Athletes have their highs and lows, but it’s important to appreciate their journey. It makes for compelling stories in sports.
@Layla02 Well said! However, people also need to recognize the impact of age on performance; it can’t be ignored as fighters get older.
This article is just another boring press release. Who cares about Kovalev anymore? He lost his last fight and now he’s just an old guy trying to get attention. 😒
I think this is such a great way to say goodbye to Kovalev! His fights has always been exciting, and I cant wait to watch his final fight! Go Kovalev! 🇷🇺❤️
Yeah, but isn’t it sad he’s retiring? He was one of the best! I hope he wins one last time!