Battle for supremacy: Bivol versus Beterbiev, round three, set to unfold
Aiming for a Showdown in October: Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev's Third Act
Text messages from the boxing world reveal Russian boxer Dmitry Bivol's eager anticipation for a third crack at compatriot Artur Beterbiev. Let's dive into the details.
Bivol, who previously lost the title of the absolute world champion, has now set his sights on a novel battle. Speaking recently, he declared, "I'm eyeing a November-December clash with him."
Embracing the limelight following the early hours of February 23, 2025, Bivol triumphed in a 12-round rematch against Beterbiev via judges' decision. His winning scores stood at 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113. As a result, he claimed the crown as the absolute world champion in the light heavyweight division.
Bivol and Beterbiev first met in the ring in the early hours of October 13, 2024, in Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately for Bivol, this bout ended with a judges' decision in favor of Beterbiev. Before this fateful encounter, neither boxer had tasted defeat in their professional careers. Beterbiev claimed his 21st victory, while Bivol boasted a record of 23-1. Yet, recent reports suggest that Beterbiev has now suffered his first career setback.
In the past, Bivol also entertained the idea of a match against Ukrainian Usyk.
Interestingly, the latest insider intel hints at a possible October showdown instead of the previously speculated November-December fight. The Bivol vs. Beterbiev trilogy match might be one of the highlights of Riyadh Season.
Moreover, Dmitry Bivol has communicated to the WBC his intention to relinquish his title to pave the way for the planned encounter with Beterbiev. This decision arises from the WBC ordering Bivol to engage in a defense against mandatory challenger David Benavidez. However, promoter Eddie Hearn has indicated a strong preference for Bivol to commit to the trilogy match with Beterbiev, viewing it as a matter of honor rather than a mere contractual obligation.
Bivol aims for a rematch with his compatriot, Artur Beterbiev, in October of 2025, as both boxers are planning to make a third appearance in the ring. Their anticipated showdown could potentially mirror the excitement of their initial encounter in 2024. Despite holding the WBC title in the light heavyweight division after his triumph in February 2025, Bivol feels it's more honorable to relinquish his title for the highly anticipated third act against Beterbiev.
