The anticipation builds as Russian boxers Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol prepare to clash once again in the boxing ring. Scheduled for February 22, 2024, this rematch for the title of absolute champion will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Fans eagerly await what promises to be another thrilling encounter between these two elite athletes.
Artur Beterbiev, who currently holds the title, enters the ring with the impressive record of 21 bouts, 21 victories, and 20 knockouts. He remains undefeated, making him one of the most formidable fighters in the light heavyweight division. Dmitry Bivol, on the other hand, brings his own credentials to the match, having won 23 of his 24 professional fights, with just one loss. The stakes couldn’t be higher for both competitors.
The first bout between these two champions took place back on October 12-13, 2024, where Beterbiev claimed victory by split decision. The judges scored the fight 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112, awarding Beterbiev with the title of absolute champion of the world. A win for Bivol would mean redemption and retribution for the only loss of his career, adding to the narrative of this much-anticipated rematch.
"The first fight ended with Beterbiev winning by split decision, becoming the absolute champion of the world," reported by Sovsport. This history adds to the dramatic tension surrounding the upcoming fight, as Bivol’s camp is confident they have addressed the shortcomings from their last encounter. "This is Bivol's 25th professional match; he aims to recover from his last bout's loss," added the report.
Fans can catch this high-stakes showdown live as it is set to be broadcast on the Первый канал, as well as on the online platforms Okko Sport and Kinopoisk. The fight is anticipated to start around 11:00 PM Moscow time, allowing viewers to engage with the excitement of the event from various mediums.
Both boxers have established themselves as elite competitors, and this rematch brings with it the intrigue of contrasting fighting styles. Beterbiev’s aggressive approach, evident by his high knockout ratio, has earned him the nickname of the 'Crusher.' Bivol is known for his technical skills and ring intelligence, which he hopes will turn the tide of the fight this time around.
"Beterbiev is undefeated with 20 KOs out of 21 wins," reports Sovsport. His physicality and knockout power have made him one of the most dangerous fighters, and Bivol will need to be at his best to negate these advantages. The matchup not only invites the local audience but will also attract global attention as boxing enthusiasts look forward to seeing how the narrative of their rivalry evolves.
The fight is projected to take the boxing world by storm, with discussions around the potential outcomes and what they mean for both fighters’ careers. Will Beterbiev continue his dominance, or will Bivol reclaim glory and avenge his defeat? The outcome will not only define their careers but potentially shake up the light heavyweight division.
With just days to go, the boxing community remains captivated by the storyline of this rematch, emphasizing the emotional stakes involved. This bout is not just about titles; it’s about reputation and legacies. Both fighters understand the weight of their roles and what this fight can mean—not just for themselves but for the sport as well.
All eyes will undoubtedly be on Riyadh this February 22nd, as boxing fans around the world tune in to witness history being made. The thrill, tension, and talent showcased promise to deliver one of the biggest fights of the year.