All eyes are set on the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this Saturday, February 22, 2025, as the much-anticipated boxing rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol takes center stage. This high-stakes duel will determine the undisputed champion of the light heavyweight division, with all major titles on the line, including the WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO belts.
After their first fight on October 12, 2024, which ended with Beterbiev winning by majority decision, many fans and experts have called for this rematch. The scores from the bout were close: 116-112, 115-113, and 114-114, indicating just how competitive the first fight was.
Artur Beterbiev, originally from Khasavyurt, Dagestan, and now residing in Canada, has maintained his reign at the top of the light heavyweight category. With a record of 21 victories, including 20 by knockout, Beterbiev has built his reputation on his extraordinary punching power and durability, showing no signs of decline at 40 years old. His recent success saw him unify all four major title belts for the first time among light heavyweights during the era of the four-belt system.
Dmitry Bivol, born in Tokmak, Kyrgyzstan, and now settled in California, is on the hunt for redemption. Until his loss to Beterbiev, Bivol had been undefeated with 23 wins, including 12 by knockout. This rematch presents him with the opportunity not only to reclaim his lost titles but also to prove he is among the top fighters at this weight.
The significant anticipation surrounding this bout arises not only from the champions involved but also from the contrasting styles of the two fighters. Beterbiev, known for his aggressive approach and powerful punches, will face Bivol, whose strategic boxing technique and ability to maintain distance could be instrumental. Experts debate on whether Bivol can exploit his speed advantage against the older Beterbiev, who is known for his resilience and physicality.
The rematch will be broadcasted exclusively on DAZN, available through pay-per-view. For viewers in Mexico, the main card starts at 9:30 AM (CDT), with the main event projected to begin around 4:45 PM (CDT). This card also features several other title fights, making it one of the most stacked boxing events of the year.
The complete fight card includes:
- Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol — 12 rounds for the undisputed light heavyweight title
- Joseph Parker vs. Martin Bakole — 12 rounds for the heavyweight title
- Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield — 12 rounds for the lightweight title
- Carlos Adames vs. Hamzah Sheeraz — 12 rounds for the middleweight title
- Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Israil Madrimov — 12 rounds for the vacant super welterweight title
- Joshua Buatsi vs. Callum Smith — 12 rounds for the interim WBO light heavyweight title
- Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel — 12 rounds for the interim heavyweight title
With numerous championship titles on the line and the possibility of building tension for future bouts, boxing fans worldwide will be glued to their screens. The outcome of the rematch could not only redefine the current light heavyweight hierarchy but also pave the way for potential future encounters, urging spectators to tune in for what promises to be another exhilarating chapter.