Light Heavyweight Supremacy: Beterbiev Edges Bivol in Thrilling Encounter
In a highly anticipated showdown, Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol clashed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with the undisputed light heavyweight championship on the line. The bout, seven years in the making, lived up to its billing, with both fighters showcasing their elite skills.
A Fight for the Ages
Bivol, 33, began strongly, using his jab and footwork to outbox Beterbiev from the outside. However, the accumulation of shots, even blocked, took its toll on Bivol. Beterbiev, 39, capitalized on this, winning the final three rounds on all three judges’ scorecards to secure a majority decision victory (115-113, 116-112, and 114-114).
A Dream Deferred
Despite his valiant effort, Bivol was left disappointed, his dream of becoming the undisputed light heavyweight champion slipping through his fingers. “I’m aware I have to do everything perfect, and I don’t have any explanation because it could look like excuses,” Bivol said, already looking forward to a potential rematch.
A Rivalry Born
The fight marked a new chapter in the storied history of light heavyweight summit meetings. With both fighters destined for the Hall of Fame, a rematch is almost inevitable. Beterbiev, now 21-0 with 20 KOs, remains the only champion with a 100% KO percentage, while Bivol, 23-1 with 12 KOs, seeks revenge against the man who denied him his dream.
CompuBox Punch Stats
| Punches | Beterbiev | Bivol |
| — | — | — |
| Total landed | 137 | 142 |
| Total thrown | 682 | 423 |
| Percent | 20% | 34% |
| Jabs landed | 47 | 58 |
| Jabs thrown | 376 | 255 |
| Percent | 13% | 23% |
| Power landed | 90 | 84 |
| Power thrown | 306 | 168 |
| Percent | 29% | 50% |
A New Chapter
As the dust settles on this epic encounter, fans and fighters alike eagerly await the next installment in this thrilling rivalry. Will Beterbiev and Bivol face off again in 2025? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the greatest light heavyweight of this generation will be decided in the ring.
Leave a Reply