Kovalev beats 49-year-old Hopkins on points to unify titles

The unanimous decision gave Kovalev the IBF and WBA belts to go with his own WBO title, which he brought into the bout.

The 31-year-old knocked Hopkins down in the first round and ended up having scores of 120-107 from two judges and 120-106 from the other.

"I wanted to show fans that I know how to box and I did," Kovalev said.

"I tried to go for the knockout in the 12th round. He has great defence. He's the best boxer in my division."

The defeat could be the end for the veteran Hopkins and his Russian opponent believes it should be.

"He was a really tough opponent," he added. "He is very good at keeping distance.

“I really respect him for the fight but he needs to stop his career, I think, because he's already done a lot in the boxing world and he needs to give an opportunity to younger fighters to be champions. I'm next."

As for Hopkins, he was full of praise for his victorious opponent.

"I give him a lot of respect," said Hopkins. "We both would fight anyone and that's how we ended up here tonight. That's what brought us together.

“That's what the people want to see, one title, one belt, one champion.

"When he got hit with some of my shots he would step back. But he used his reach and his distance and that was the key to his victory.

“He has very good mechanics and patience. It was smart that he stayed patient. He had a really good game plan. I will give him that."