Kovalev KO's Yarde in 11th round to retain WBO light heavyweight title

Sergey Kovalev knocked out Anthony Yarde in the 11th round to retain his WBO light heavyweight championship on Saturday.

A powerful left jab sent a tired Yarde to the ground and ended the entertaining title bout.

Kovalev appeared to be in danger during the eighth round when Yarde unleashed a barrage of heavy blows, leading the Russian's trainer to warn his fighter he'd throw in the towel if the punishment didn't stop.

But Yarde, who'd never previously fought later than the seventh round, wore down as the fight went on and opened the door for Kovalev to find the knockout punch.

With the victory, Kovalev could be next in line to face middleweight king Canelo Alvarez. The two were in talks to fight in Septemeber, but a deal couldn't be struck.

Alvarez is eyeing a fight for Nov. 2, but no opponent has been named as the Mexican wanted to see if Kovalev could get through the previously undefeated Yarde with no injuries, according to Dan Rafael of ESPN.