Nikolai Valuev earned a chance at the WBA heavyweight title on Saturday by defeating Sergei Liakhovich of Belarus in a one-sided decision between former champions.
The 2.13m Russian, in one of his best performances, effectively used his left jab from the opening seconds to subdue the smaller fighter in the WBA eliminator bout.
Valuev, who improved to 48-1, won 120-108 on two of the judges' scorecards and 120-107 on the other to earn a rematch against Ruslan Chagaev, the first to beat the Russian as a pro and who took away his WBA belt in April.
PHOTO: AP
"I'm looking forward to the fight. Ruslan Chagaev, we'll see each other soon," Valuev said.
Valuev's lopsided decision came against the Belarussian who knocked out Lamon Brewster in a bruising battle to win the WBO title. Liakhovich (23-3) lost his title two years against Shannon Briggs on a last-second knockout despite leading on points.
Valuev, who was the tallest champion of all time, repeatedly scored with the jab, partially closing Liakhovich's left eye.
"Do you want us to quit?" Liakhovich's trainer Tommy Brooks yelled after the eighth round. "We don't have much choice if you keep standing in front of this guy."
The 34-year-old Valuev also rocked Liakhovich with hard rights several times. Never known for his mobility or boxing skill, he even threw flurries of combinations at several points.
"I did it better than before. I think we have changed a lot of things," said Valuev, who has a new trainer.
The win thrusts the Russian back into the heavyweight picture, where several unification fights are expected.
Valuev will face a tougher test against Chagaev, a quick fighter who forced him to trade punches in their last bout.
Liakhovich, 20cm shorter, appeared simply overwhelmed by Valuev's size.
"He knew how to use his advantages," Liakhovich said. "I didn't have any answers. It wasn't my day."
■ PAVLIK V TAYLOR
AP, LAS VEGAS
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