The Russian tested positive in a WBC Clean Boxing Program test earlier this year, although was able to prove his innocence enough for the WBA and WBO to sanction his bout with Andrey Rudenko.
A first round rabbit punch brought proceedings to a halt, and for a spell it seemed as though Rudenko would pulled out of the fight with a tweaked neck.
The Ukrainian battled on following a prolonged stoppage but was soundly out-fought for the duration of the twelve rounds by the far superior Povetkin.
Judges carded 120-109 and 120-108 (twice) in favor of the Olympic gold medallist as Povetkin regained his world ranking and moved to 32-1.
In the co-feature, ex-world champion Eduard Troyanovsky bludgeoned Italian Michele Di Rocco to the canvas four times on his way to a fourth round knockout.
Elsewhere in France, Women’s WBC and WBA featherweight champion Jelena Mrdjenovich went home with her belts following a split decision draw with Stephanie Ducastel.
In Germany, ex-world title challenger Karo Murat stunned previously undefeated European ruler Dominic Boesel with an eleventh round stoppage to rip away the blue strap, whilst Josh Wale won the British belt at the third time of asking in the UK by out-pointing Jamie Wilson.
Also on the bill, Dave Coldwell managed Lee Appleyard picked up the English lightweight title with a sixth round victory over Steve Brogan.
