Artur Beterbiev overcame a mini-crisis to retain his world light-heavyweight titles against a spirited Anthony Yarde at London’s Wembley Arena.
The unbeaten champion found the necessary shots to end the contest in the eighth session, but only after overcoming a relentless challenger who went all out to prove that he belonged at world level.
Yarde made a solid start and although he tried to set a fast pace, he couldn’t maintain his effort in every round as Beterbiev enjoyed many successes.
The 38-year-old appeared to be buzzed on many occasions, but whenever Yarde looked like he was getting ahead, Beterbiev would find just enough to turn the fight back in his favour.
In round number eight of a pulsating fight, Beterbiev put it all together. A solid right hand did most of the damage and a further one floored the London man.
When Yarde beat the count by the narrowest of margins, his corner ended the bout before Beterbiev could inflict further punishment on the brave challenger.
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