Beterbiev KOs Yarde in 8th round to retain light-heavyweight belts

Artur Beterbiev knocked out Anthony Yarde in the eighth round to retain his WBC, IBF, and WBO light-heavyweight titles Saturday at OVO Arena in London.

The fight was restarted after Beterbiev knocked down Yarde, but Yarde's corner decided to thrown in the towel, ending the fight.

Beterbiev (19-0) continued his incredible run with the 19th consecutive knockout of his professional career.

Yarde (23-3, 22 KOs) held his own during the bout and was ahead on two scorecards at the time of the knockout. The 31-year-old landed several powerful punches and was able to cut Beterbiev under the left eye.

Beterbiev's next opponent is unclear. Many are hoping for a potential undisputed light-heavyweight title fight with Dmitry Bivol. Bivol said following his Nov. 5 victory over Gilberto Ramirez that he was looking at a matchup with Beterbiev as his next challenge.

"I want Bivol," Beterbiev said, according to ESPN's Mike Coppinger. "Right now, it's everything. In that fight, we'll have four belts. It's really good fight, I think."