WBA Heavyweight Champion Alexander Povetkin, who for the first time in his career was prepared by Kostya Tszyu, presented himself in best form at the fully packed Sporthalle Hamburg, Germany on Saturday. He won against former champion Hasim Rahman (50-8-2, 41 KOs) within two rounds in front of 4.000 spectators.

The start of the fight seemed to be on level terms but very quickly, Povetkin took control. After a well-placed left hook, followed by a barrage of big blows, Rahman started tumbling. Povetkin took full advantage of the situation and continually kept the pressure on his opponent, who was not able to defend himself anymore. Therefore, the referee stopped the bout after one minute and 46 seconds of round two.

"Wladimir Klitschko takes on Mariusz Wach from Poland next. The winner has until the end of February to face Alexander inside the ring," said promoter Kalle Sauerland afterwards.

Povetkin himself is hoping for a Klitschko victory. "I would like to fight Wladimir. A fight between him and myself would be very exciting and interesting to watch," said the successful WBA Champion.