Dmitry Bivol Defeats Artur Beterbiev in Rematch to Claim Undisputed Light Heavyweight Title

Dmitry Bivol avenged his first career loss and claimed the undisputed light heavyweight title by defeating Artur Beterbiev in a thrilling rematch in Saudi Arabia. Their previous encounter, four months ago, saw Beterbiev emerge victorious, handing Bivol a shock defeat. In their second showdown, Bivol was determined to settle the score and delivered a well-rounded performance to secure the win. The judges scored the fight in his favor, with two giving him a 116-112 and 115-113 advantage, while the third judge had it a draw at 114-114.

Bivol’s Confidence, Skill, and Strategy Lead to Victory Over Beterbiev’s Power

Bivol attributed his victory to his increased confidence and determination. “I was better. I was pushing myself more. I was more confident. I was lighter, and I just wanted to win so much today,” he said after the fight, proudly holding all four championship belts. Although the two fighters appeared evenly matched in the early rounds, Bivol began to dominate in the middle rounds, showcasing his exceptional boxing skills and power. His ability to avoid Beterbiev’s counterattacks while landing his own shots became evident as the fight progressed.

Despite Beterbiev’s experience and power, he was unable to stop Bivol from securing the victory. In the 12th round, Beterbiev did manage to land a powerful right hand that opened a cut above Bivol’s left eye. However, it was too late to change the outcome of the fight. Bivol held on and successfully secured the win, handing Beterbiev his first career defeat. “I just wanted to work from the first round until the end of the 12th,” Bivol commented, reflecting on the strategy that led him to the championship.

Bivol’s Surprising Loss, Intense Rematch, and Beterbiev’s Desire for Revenge Continue Rivalry

Bivol’s loss to Beterbiev had come as a surprise to many, particularly following his victory over Canelo Álvarez in 2022. The rematch between Bivol and Beterbiev became highly anticipated, with both fighters eager to continue their rivalry. The second fight lived up to expectations, with both fighters showcasing their elite boxing skills. With Bivol now the undisputed light heavyweight champion, a potential third fight between the two seems likely, given the intensity and competitiveness of their bouts.

Despite Beterbiev admitting that he wasn’t initially eager for the rematch, he now relishes the opportunity to avenge his loss. “I think this fight was better than the first fight. Now it’s my time to come back,” Beterbiev said after the fight. He also expressed a willingness to face Bivol in a third encounter if needed. Meanwhile, earlier in the night, New Zealand’s Joseph Parker claimed a dominant second-round victory over Martin Bakole, potentially setting up a unification bout with Oleksandr Usyk.