Bivol’s Thrilling Revenge Victory Over Beterbiev Marks Dethronement

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Media caption: Bivol beats Beterbiev to win undisputed light-heavyweight world title

Published on February 23, 2025 | 323 Comments

Russian Dmitry Bivol delivered a dazzling boxing performance to exact revenge against fellow countryman Artur Beterbiev and secure the undisputed light-heavyweight world championship in Saudi Arabia. His impressive footwork, agile flurries, and precise punching style ultimately prevailed over his opponent in Riyadh, securing him a well-deserved victory through majority decision points.

Beterbiev, aged 40, managed to land powerful punches during the early rounds but visibly faltered towards the end of the fight. This contest marked Bivol’s comeback from losing a previous points battle against Beterbiev in October, as he reclaimed all four major world titles: WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF.

“I aimed to outperform my opponent from start to finish. I was more focused and confident throughout the match,” said Bivol after his triumph. “I wanted this win so badly today.”

The outcome of these 24 rounds sets up an intriguing rematch in the future, with both fighters looking forward to a potential third encounter.

“The second fight wasnt my choice, but no problem at all,” said Beterbiev, who suffered his first professional loss after 22 consecutive victories. “If needed, we can do a trilogy.”

The rematch between the two top light-heavyweight boxers was even more compelling than their initial clash. Without any heated pre-fight buildup or ring walks, they swiftly entered the arena with mutual respect and focused intensity.

Bivol showcased his hallmark jab and nimble feet by opening with sharp combinations in the second round. Meanwhile, Beterbiev landed powerful blows in the third round, displaying their respective boxing styles at their best. The crowd, which included legends Roberto Duran and Prince Naseem Hamed, was on its feet during these electrifying exchanges.

Betterbiev unleashed a series of heavy right hands that staggered Bivol in the fifth round. However, Bivol regained his composure with cleaner punches and elegant footwork in the eighth and ninth rounds. Although fatigued and bruised by this point, Beterbiev remained a persistent threat.

Bivol confidently dominated towards the end of their championship bout when advised to focus on securing victory. Both teams showed no signs of celebration at matchs end, as they prepare for further competition.

A third fight between these two boxing legends seems inevitable due to public demand and the excitement surrounding this rivalry. Meanwhile, earlier in Riyadh, heavyweight Joseph Parker swiftly defeated Martin Bakole with a second-round knockout win.

Bakole had originally been scheduled to face IBF world champion Daniel Dubois before the Briton withdrew due to illness on Thursday. At an unofficial weigh-in, Bakole weighed 217 lbs (94 kg), significantly heavier than Parkers career-lightweight record of 205 lbs (93 kg). Despite this disadvantage and a slow start in his corner draped with the Democratic Republic of Congo flag, Bakole managed to draw blood from Parker before falling heavily to the canvas after receiving an overhand right counter punch.

Parker, at 33 years old, is now undefeated in three consecutive professional bouts. He welcomed the prospect of facing unified champion Oleksandr Usyk for another world title shot.