Despite some obvious distractions and some age concerns, WBO Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey Kovalev (33-3-1, 28 KO) will be back in the ring on Saturday in his native Russia to defend his title against Anthony Yarde (18-0, 17 KO).
Here’s how you can watch.
- Date: Saturday, August 24
- Time: 12:30 pm ET
- TV: None
- Live Stream: ESPN+
The Draw
At one time, Kovalev was among the most feared champions in the sport, but things fell apart. He lost consecutive fights against the great Andre Ward, and was then knocked out by Eleider Alvarez after regaining his WBO title. Trainer Buddy McGirt was able to help Kovalev pick up the pieces and regain his title from Alvarez in a rematch. Still, he didn’t exactly look like the old Krusher we’ve come to expect.
Away from the ring, Kovalev is battling assault charges, and he was named in an alleged sexual assault that resulted in him being removed from a plane. Meanwhile, Kovalev is 36 years old. There is even reason to wonder about his mental fitness for the fight.
The challenger Yarde, is eight years younger and a powerful puncher. He hasn’t yet faced any opponents that would lead us to believe he can compete with Kovalev. However, if Kovalev isn’t in top form, there could be an opening for Yarde to take advantage of a compromised champion.
The challenger has knocked out all but one of the opponents he’s faced. Still, the fight with Kovalev represents a major step up in competition. If Kovalev can win, he may have a megafight coming up against Golden Boy and DAZN superstar Canelo Alvarez. It may not be a prime time fight in the United States, but there is still a lot on the line.
The Undercard
- Ilunga Makabu vs. Aleksei Papin – Cruiserweights
- Evgeny Romanov vs. Dario German Balmaceda, Heavyweights
What Else Will Be On?
Because the ESPN+ stream begins so early in the United States, the show will avoid most of the major competition for viewership. If anything, the early start is the biggest impediment.
Aside from the PGA Tour Championship on the Golf Channel, there doesn’t appear to be anything competing with Kovalev-Yarde for views.
