Sergey Kovalev vs Igor Mikhalkin

On March 3, 2018, Sergey Kovalev made the first defence of his second reign of the WBO light heavyweight title with a methodical seventh-round TKO victory over Igor Mikhalkin at Madison Square Garden Theater. The Russian champion, who weighed 175 pounds, systematically defeated his 172-pound German-based challenger.

The statistical dominance was clear: Kovalev connected with 186 of 525 punches (35%), including 165 power shots at a 46% success rate. Mikhalkin's output was limited to 43 landed punches from 275 attempts, managing only 32 power connections from 172 throws.

Despite Mikhalkin's southpaw stance causing some initial adjustment issues for Kovalev, the champion's power proved decisive. The end came at 2:25 of the seventh round when referee Steve Willis called for the ringside physician to examine a deteriorating cut under Mikhalkin's right eye. The doctor's assessment led to the stoppage.

Kovalev acknowledged Mikhalkin's boxing ability post-fight while expressing self-criticism about facing southpaw opponents. When questioned about potential unification bouts, particularly with Dmitry Bivol, who had won earlier that evening, Kovalev indicated interest contingent on financial terms. He also mentioned Badou Jack as a possible opponent, pending Jack's proposed bout with Adonis Stevenson.

Main Events, Krusher Promotions, and EC Boxpromotion promoted the event, which aired on HBO with Michael Buffer as the ring announcer.