During the prime of his career, Provodnikov was known as a highly aggressive pressure fighter possessing formidable punching power, stamina and an exceptionally durable chin.
[9] Provodnikov fought several times on ESPN 2's Friday Night Fights and developed a reputation for being an exciting, come forward, pressure fighter.
Provodnikov lost a close unanimous decision to Timothy Bradley on March 16, 2013, for the WBO welterweight championship.
Provodnikov was considered an easily beatable opponent for Bradley, who was looking for a confidence booster after beating Manny Pacquiao in what was deemed one of boxing's worst decisions.
[13] Provodnikov faced little-known American Chris Algieri in the first defense of his title on June 14, 2014, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Provodnikov connected with a left hook in the first round that knocked Algieri down and formed a large swelling under the challenger's right eye.
Despite scoring two knockdowns in the opening frame, Algieri's footwork and boxing skills prevented Provodnikov from getting into range to land his shots.
Negotiations began for a bout with fellow power puncher, Argentine Lucas Matthysse, there was a large amount of hype surrounding the fight coming in.
A headbutt caused a deep cut above Ruslan's left eye early in the fight and it began to distract him straight away.