To the squared circle, where China's Zou Shiming beat Prasitsak Papoem of Thailand for the vacant WBO world flyweight title on Saturday night.

Zou Shiming (L) of China celebrates after defeating Prasitak Phaprom of Thailand in a WBO flyweight title boxing match in Las Vegas, the United States, Nov. 5, 2016. (Xinhua/Yang Lei)

The two-time Olympic gold medalist had already claimed the international version of the belt twice, but has now reached the pinnacle of the sport, with his first top-level professional championship.

And the 35-year-old says he's honored to play a role in boxing's development in his home country. 

Zou said, "I consider winning this belt as completing my career goals, and the payoff for 21 years of effort."

"It also shows progress for Chinese boxing. There has been a Chinese winner not only at the Olympics, but now also in professional boxing. It is a step forward for Chinese boxing, and I'll always be a part of it."