LAS VEGAS - Beibut Shumenov (16-2, 10 KOs) defeated B.J. Flores (31-2-1, 20 KOs) by unanimous decision Saturday night to win a cruiserweight world title on Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN from the Pearl at Palms Casino Resort.

Shumenov came out aggressive early before using his movement late to earn a world title in a second division and become the first fighter from Kazakhstan to achieve that feat. Flores was competitive throughout the fight, countering effectively when Shumenov showed aggression while landing more power punches.

In the 12th-round Flores wobbled Shumenov on the ropes in the closing seconds, but was unable to earn a knockdown. Shumenov used a strong jab and quick movements to make Flores miss consistently. All three judges scored the fight 116-112.

"Beibut always comes forward, he's very tough, but tonight he ran the whole night. It's tough to win a fight when the guy is trying to run in circles," Flores said.

"My punches were crisp and effective and I hurt him. He had nothing on his punches and never hurt me.

"I wobbled him in the twelfth round and then I went in to rush him. He kept moving back though.

"You have to want to fight. PBC is about guys wanting to fight. That's what it's all about.

"I'm ready to get back in the ring, I'm fine. It was difficult to catch up with him because he wanted to move around so much.

"I learned in those last few rounds that even though he was moving around so much, I could pick up the tempo and bring the fight to him.

"You can't fight a guy who isn't trying to engage. You have to fight to win the fight. He was throwing jabs while I was trying to hurt him.

"I'm so thankful to all my fans who came out tonight, I wouldn't be anywhere without them. I will be back. Beibut, I want the rematch."