Dmitry Bivol became the undisputed light heavyweight champion of the world after outpointing Artur Beterbiev in a thrilling, high-level contest. In a rematch of their October bout, where Beterbiev had edged out a majority decision, Bivol reversed the outcome with a similarly close verdict, winning by scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 114-114.
Both fighters, known more for their skills in the ring than for showmanship, approached the fight with quiet intensity. Bivol, clad in a shimmering silver tunic, walked briskly to the ring, acknowledging fans along the way. Beterbiev, dressed in plain black, remained solemn and focused as he made his way down the same path. The atmosphere was electric, with chants of “Bi-vol, Bi-vol, Bi-vol” echoing through the arena.
The fight began with caution, as both men studied each other. Bivol, more measured than in their first encounter, focused on preserving his energy for the later rounds. Beterbiev, true to his aggressive style, pressed forward with relentless pressure, trying to wear Bivol down. However, the challenger remained composed, countering with sharp, precise punches. As the rounds progressed, the fight developed into a tactical battle Beterbiev bringing raw aggression, while Bivol responded with skillful movement and crisp combinations.
In the third round, Bivol found his rhythm, landing fluid combinations before Beterbiev retaliated with punishing body shots. The fourth saw Beterbiev ramp up his attack, forcing Bivol onto the back foot. Despite the pressure, Bivol showcased his defensive skills, evading heavy blows and landing counters. The fight’s momentum swung back and forth, with Beterbiev’s power clashing against Bivol’s precision.
Midway through the contest, Bivol began to seize control. His footwork and timing frustrated Beterbiev, and he landed a clean right hook in the seventh round that signaled his growing confidence. By the eighth, Bivol was dictating the pace, bouncing lightly on his toes and jabbing effectively to keep Beterbiev at bay. The ninth round further demonstrated his dominance, as he dodged a wild swing and countered with four unanswered punches, drawing cheers from the crowd.
With the fight entering its final stages, Beterbiev came out aggressively in the tenth round, knowing he needed a strong finish. However, Bivol met him with sharp counterpunching, landing to both the head and body while avoiding prolonged exchanges. The eleventh saw Bivol again land cleanly, his precision proving the difference as Beterbiev continued to march forward.
Heading into the final round, Beterbiev’s corner urged him to go all out. He pressed forward with everything he had, but Bivol stood firm, landing a final flurry of punches before the bell. When the decision was announced, Bivol initially appeared tense, but when the final scores confirmed his victory, he broke into an emotional celebration, covering his face before raising his arms in triumph as the undisputed champion.
After the fight, Bivol reflected on what had changed from their first encounter. “I was better. I was pushing myself more. I was more confident. I just wanted to win so much today,” he explained. He also acknowledged the challenge of managing Beterbiev’s early aggression, saying, “It was hard to keep him at distance for the first four rounds. But then I saw he was tired too. I had to be smarter, punch more cleanly, and I did.”
When asked about a potential third fight, Bivol welcomed the challenge but emphasized the need for recovery. “I want a little bit of rest because I had some injuries and was using anti-inflammation medication almost the whole camp. I need time to heal and come back.”
Beterbiev, visibly frustrated, was blunt in his post-fight comments. “I don’t want to talk about the decision,” he said, before offering a grudging congratulations. He admitted this fight was better than their first encounter but made it clear he intends to return. “Actually, I didn’t want the second fight. It wasn’t my choice. But no problem. We’re going to do a third fight.”
Leaving the ring without shaking Bivol’s hand, Beterbiev’s frustration was evident. He pointed repeatedly at his rival, signaling that their rivalry was far from over. With both fighters proving their greatness once again, a trilogy fight now seems inevitable.
