LAS VEGAS - Beibut Shumenov (16-2, 10 KOs) defeated B.J. Flores (31-2-1, 20 KOs) by unanimous decision Saturday night to win a cruiserweight world title on Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN from the Pearl at Palms Casino Resort.

Shumenov came out aggressive early before using his movement late to earn a world title in a second division and become the first fighter from Kazakhstan to achieve that feat. Flores was competitive throughout the fight, countering effectively when Shumenov showed aggression while landing more power punches.

In the 12th-round Flores wobbled Shumenov on the ropes in the closing seconds, but was unable to earn a knockdown. Shumenov used a strong jab and quick movements to make Flores miss consistently. All three judges scored the fight 116-112.

 "B.J. is a strong guy but he was lunging while I was scoring points. I'm still in the learning process and I'm more comfortable as a cruiserweight," Shumenov said.

"Boxing is an art. I used my skills, positioning, angles and footwork to win the fight.

"I feel blessed, I have a strong team that is like one. Without them I wouldn't have won the fight tonight.

"I followed the instructions from my corner and thought I won the fight clearly.

"I had extra motivation to make history. I first did that when I wont the light heavyweight title in 10 fights and now I'm the first person from my country to win world titles in two different division. I'm very proud of that.

"Denis Lebedev is my main target. But I want to fight all the best and most dangerous cruiserweights in the world."