For the first time in the history of the event, 18 rounds were required to separate the two titans, with the non-stop format, that sees action continue until one concedes, proving extra tense for players and fans alike. 

"It demands complete concentration at all times, the slightest mistake and you might be punished," said Georgiev, the Russian who eventually prevailed in front of a huge crowd.

He admitted afterwards he had been in a losing position in the penultimate round, but "luckily Ivanov did not see it as he could have beaten me".

The competition continues in the men's event tomorrow, with Roel Boomstra of The Netherlands and Joel N'Cho Atse of Ivory Coast, rather than the Ukrainian or the Russian, overnight leaders.

Motrichko ensured Ukrainian success in the women's competition which did conclude today, however, getting the better of Tamara Tansykkuzhina of Russia, while compatriot Darya Tkachenko took bronze.