Sergey Kovalev to face Anthony Yarde on August 24

WBO World Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey "Krusher" Kovalev (33-3-1, 28 KOs) will fight in his own hometown for the first time in his professional boxing career when he takes on WBO mandatory challenger, Anthony Yarde (18-0, 17 KOs) of the United Kingdom, on Saturday, August 24th at the Traktor Arena in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

"I am thrilled to fight for the first time in my home town of Chelyabinsk," said Kovalev.  "It is a dream to defend my WBO title in front of all my friends and family back home. Thank you to Igor Altushkin, Egis Klimas and Main Events for making this dream a reality and thank you to Anthony Yarde for agreeing to fight in my backyard."

Multiple outlets reported that Kovalev was in negotiations for a showdown with Mexican star Canelo Alvarez, but when Alvarez vacated his September fight date, Kovalev had to make alternative plans.

"I am more than happy to achieve my goal in Russia and I think it is only right that a great world champion such as Kovalev is given the opportunity to defend in his home country," said Yarde.  "He has earned that right. What I know is that on Aug. 24 another World Title belt will be under British ownership and I will have done it the hard way -- one that nobody will be able to question. This is my time and I am going to show the world what I am all about. Everything has fallen perfectly into place for me. This will be my coronation as world champion and I am going to realize my dream by beating the most decorated of the current world title holders."

The fight will be seen on Match TV in Russia, BT Sport in the UK and US distribution information will be released soon.  The fight will be Kovalev's 16th consecutive world title bout.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com