Alexander´s professional career

Alexander Povetkin got what it takes to be a special champion – brilliant technical skills, a great vision, an impressive will, the solid background of Russia´s amateur school and one big goal: the world title. In contrast to the careers of other professional boxers, Povetkin´s record has not been padded. It has been a high-risk operation for his promoters, Sauerland Event (Wilfried Sauerland and his son, Kalle) who edged the most prominent boxing stables when they signed the Russian star. “We knew about his incredible potential,” said Kalle Sauerland. “That´s why we were not afraid to pair him with strong opponents straight away.”
And Povetkin learned the ropes fast. While others wasted their time fighting “Tomato Cans”, the Tsar marched up the rankings. He cruised to victories over top-ten fighters like Larry Donald, former champion Chris Byrd and Eddie Chambers.

In 2007, Ray Austin earned the right to challenge IBF champion Wladimir Klitschko – only to suffer a ridiculous second-round TKO humiliation. To save themselves from further embarrassment, the IBF launched a four-way tournament to determine a worthy contender. Needless to say, it was Povetkin who finished first.