Russian world light heavyweight champion Artur Petterbiev knocked out American Joe Smith Jr. after just two rounds in New York, adding the World Boxing Organization (WPO) title to his WBC International Boxing Federation “IPF” titles.

At Madison Square Garden, Bertiev knocked out his opponent on the mat three times in the first round, and stopped the fight for the fourth time a minute before the end of the second round.

Bertiev, 37, who also holds Canadian citizenship, has increased his tally to 18 wins in 18 professional fights, all by knockout, and is now looking to unify all light heavyweight titles against WBA champion Dmitry Bevol.

“It was easy for me to beat him,” Petrbiev said after his quick win, before turning his attention to the prospect of a historic fight with Bevol.

“I’ve had two fights for monotheism, and the fight for monotheism is more interesting,” he added. “I prefer monotheism. I want to be king in that category.”

Smith received his fourth defeat for 28 wins, 22 of which were by knockout, and he was taken to the hospital immediately after the fight, which prevented him from speaking to the media.

The 32-year-old American boxer started strong but was quickly eclipsed by Peterbiev thanks to his ability to quickly drop him in the first round after a few left jabs, and he did the same again after a left choke to start the countdown for him to come back and fall in third time.

The second round was no different from the previous one, as it was clear that Smith’s defeat was only a matter of time. Petterbiev landed a flurry of punches that knocked Smith to the ground before he got up again. Referee Harvey Duke hurried after a few seconds to stop the match and declared Petribev the winner by knockout.