You are in > manchester.com  > News > Valuev makes simple defence

Boxing

Valuev makes simple defence

04/06/2006

Russia's Nikolai Valuev has successfully defended his WBA heavyweight title with a third round stoppage of Jamaica's Owen Beck.

The 7ft 1in tall champion dominated the fight in Germany, knocking down Beck in both rounds two and three before the referee was forced to stop the fight with the challenger taking a pummelling.

It was only Valuev's first defence of the belt he claimed after beating American John Ruiz in December.

But he now believes that he is ready to conquer America, a sentiment shared by his team including promoter Don King.

"I felt a lot of pressure because it was my first defence," Valuev said.

"I keep improving a lot and now I look forward to fighting in America again."

Valuev gave Beck no chance in the fight, using a variety of punches, and he looked a much better boxer than when he took the title on points.

Beck was on the deck in round two after Valuev connected with a big right hand before going down again in round three after a big right uppercut.

The Jamaican managed to get up but Valuev immediately overawed him and the referee was forced to step in.

"He is the most improved fighter I have seen in a long time and he has great teachers and he is a great student," Don King said.

"We will try to bring him to America as soon as possible and he will take it by storm, unifying all titles."

Valuev's co-promoter Wilfried Sauerland pointed to a potential fight in the States in either September or October.

© Adfero Ltd