By Raymundo Dioses
Artur Beterbiev used a workman like effort to defeat Enrico Kolling for the vacant IBF light heavyweight title in Fresno, California.
In front of more than 13,000 fans, Beterbiev (12-0, 12KO) had to outshoot a busy Koelling in the outset, yet as Koelling slowed Beterbiev kept up the pressure. Ultimately, Beterbiev's constant attack felled Koelling twice in the 12th round with referee Lou Moret waiving off the bout with thirty seconds left.
Beterbiev, who turned professional in 2013 following two stints representing Russia in the Olympics, showed dominance in the power department as well as in total punches thrown with 1,111 puches to Koelling's 252.
"He only wanted to survive and I really wanted that KO at the end," Beterbiev said through a translator. "This is what I have dreamed of my whole life. I am so happy."
The IBF light heavyweight title became vacant earlier this year when undefeated champion Andre Ward retired.