Dmitry Bivol again demonstrated his elite class that has made him one of the most interesting fighters of the light heavyweight division. The Russian scored a wide unanimous decision in Verona, New York, and retained his World Boxing Association (WBA) title against American Joe Smith Jr. this Saturday night.

Bivol looked far superior and defended his crown for the fourth time, with the scorecards reading 118-110, 119-109 and 119-109. The opening rounds were complicated for the champion born in Kyrgyzstan, but of Russian nationality, since Smith came out aggressively to look to end the fight in short manner with his power.

However, Bivol’s boxing class shone bright as he slowly implemented his game plan and began to dominate the challenger with accurate shots as has been customary throughout his career. Smith was always dangerous with his powerful hands, rocking Bivol a couple times in the fight, but never having the champion in serious trouble – only moments where a lesser fighter may have been in trouble.

In the end, it was another night of easy work for Bivol, who stands as one of the kings of the division and expects more important challenges in the near future.

The 28-year-old now has a record of 16 wins, no losses, and 11 knockouts, while Smiths record fell to 24 wins, 3 losses, and 20 knockouts.