In the world of light heavyweight boxing, a monumental clash is brewing. Unified WBC/IBF/WBO champion Artur Beterbiev, renowned for his perfect knockout record, emerged victorious over Callum Smith in Quebec City, setting the stage for a potential undisputed title fight against WBA champion Dmitry Bivol. This matchup has garnered immense attention, with Beterbiev expressing a strong desire for the bout, seeing it as a crucial step to add another belt to his collection.
Post-fight, Beterbiev’s ambitions were clear as he shared, “Yes, of course (I want the Bivol fight). I need another belt. It would mean a lot to me.” This statement sets the tone for what could be one of the most significant fights in the light heavyweight division. The possibility of unifying the titles under one champion has fans and experts alike buzzing with anticipation.
Eddie Hearn, Bivol’s promoter, revealed that Bivol has already signed a contract for a fight against Beterbiev in Saudi Arabia. However, the finalization of this epic showdown hinges on Beterbiev agreeing to his part of the deal. This development suggests that negotiations are progressing, moving us closer to a potential unification bout.
Bob Arum, Beterbiev’s promoter, confirmed that discussions for a Beterbiev-Bivol fight are underway. Arum mentioned, “It’s not done yet, but absolutely we want to do it,” indicating a strong commitment to making the fight happen. He plans to coordinate with his Excellency Turki Alalshikh for a probable fight in Riyadh, targeting a date approximately three months after the end of Ramadan, which concludes in mid-April.
The prospect of an undisputed light heavyweight champion is a tantalizing one. Beterbiev, with his unmatched knockout streak, and Bivol, a formidable WBA champion, represent the pinnacle of boxing talent in their division. This potential unification fight not only promises an explosive clash of power and skill but also the opportunity for one of these fighters to etch their name in the annals of boxing history as the undisputed light heavyweight champion.
Image Credit: Top Rank