On a rain-slicked night at Wembley Stadium, Anthony Joshua solidified his claim as the heavyweight division’s dominant force, stopping Alexander Povetkin with a devastating seventh-round technical knockout. With the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO belts on the line, Joshua demonstrated poise, precision, and punishing power against one of the most seasoned challengers of his era.

Povetkin, the 2004 Olympic gold medallist and former world title contender, entered the bout with only a single blemish on his professional record. Yet from the opening bell, it was clear he came to fight, troubling Joshua early with sharp combinations and clever footwork. A powerful left in the dying seconds of the first round bloodied Joshua’s nose, signalling that the Briton was in for a battle.

Joshua, unfazed by the early adversity, quickly adapted. Utilizing his superior reach and tactical acumen, the champion found success behind a crisp jab and measured straight rights. Povetkin, undeterred, pressed forward, looking for openings with hooks to head and body, but began to show signs of wear with cuts forming over both eyes by the fourth round.

The middle rounds saw a tactical chess match unfold, as Joshua controlled the distance while Povetkin sought to disrupt the rhythm with sudden bursts. However, the Russian’s advances left him vulnerable to counters, and Joshua patiently waited for his moment.

That moment came midway through the seventh. A thunderous right hand rocked Povetkin, sending shockwaves through the packed stadium. Smelling blood, Joshua unleashed a brutal left-right combination that floored the challenger. Though Povetkin bravely rose before the count concluded, he staggered helplessly into the ropes under another vicious barrage, forcing referee Steve Gray to halt the contest at 1:59 of the round.

At the time of the stoppage, Joshua was comfortably ahead on all three scorecards, highlighting his control of the bout despite Povetkin’s early success.

This victory marked another milestone for Joshua, who continues to carve a legacy few can rival. Unlike many legends of the sport, who only captured world titles after long apprenticeships, Joshua has now defended his crown multiple times within just 22 fights.

Though negotiations with Deontay Wilder had initially dominated headlines, Joshua’s focused dismantling of Povetkin sent a clear message: he remains the man to beat in the heavyweight division. With future super fights looming, Joshua’s reign shows no sign of slowing.