By Alexey Sukachev

Hard-hitting Russian light welterweight prospect Ruslan Provodnikov (18-1, 12 KOs) returned after his first professional loss (a controversial one) to Mauricio Herrera with expected zeal and vengeance. WBO #9 Provodnikov made easy work of usually extra durable journeyman Vyacheslav Yakovenko (7-14-1, 3 KOs) in three one-sided rounds. Yakovenko was reportedly down twice and was stopped for the first time in his career.

"I'm still waiting for details on this contest", commented Provodnikov's Russian promoter German Titov. The bout was conducted in Ruslan's hometown of Beryozovo. Yakovenko previously went distance with several notables, including red hot Dominican prospect Felix Diaz and former WBA champion Yuri Nuzhnenko. Meanwhile, Provodnikov is expected to be back in action in mid-spring. BoxRec lists undefeated Chicago-based Mexican Ivan Popoca (15-0-1, 10 KOs) as Ruslan's next opponent for April 15 clash at Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula.

Tags: Ruslan Provodnikov