Boxing fans are gearing up for one of the most anticipated matchups of the year. The rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol is set to take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight not only features these two elite boxers but also determines the undisputed light heavyweight champion of the world.
Set to start around 11:45 PM CET, fight fans across the globe will be able to catch the action through DAZN. This streaming service has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the event, making it accessible to viewers via pay-per-view. Depending on their region, fans will need to pay varying subscription costs to enjoy the bout.
Fans eagerly await the clash for several titles, including the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO belts. Beterbiev, who currently holds these championships, goes to the ring with an impressive record of 21 victories, 20 of which have come via knockout. On the other hand, Bivol, who previously held the titles and is coming off his only career loss to Beterbiev, holds a record of 23 wins, with 12 knockouts to his name.
The battle between Beterbiev and Bivol is steeped in rivalry. Their first encounter was back on October 14, 2023, where Beterbiev claimed victory by majority decision. This contentious fight left Bivol hungry for revenge, adding extra layers of intrigue to the upcoming match. "My dream is to be undisputed champion. I will prepare mentally and physically for this fight," Bivol stated, expressing his determination to reclaim his titles and prove himself as one of the top light heavyweights.
Beterbiev, now 40 years old, remains unfazed by the pressure. "I wanted to box with more quality; someday I will be even more prepared," he remarked after their last meeting. His confidence stems from his impressive knockout rate, and he is eager to solidify his legacy as a dominant champion.
For this pivotal rematch, both fighters have promised to bring their best to the ring. Bivol has indicated he will adjust his strategy, seeking to exploit any weaknesses he finds. Meanwhile, Beterbiev aims to maintain his iron grip on the division.
DAZN will begin its coverage early, with the main card set to kick off at 10:00 AM ET. This means plenty of preliminaries to watch leading up to the main event. Those interested can access the fight on various platforms, including smart TVs, PCs, smartphones, and tablet devices, broadening accessibility for combat sports fans around the world.
The fight card also includes other notable bouts, such as Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker for the IBF heavyweight title and Shakur Stevenson defending his lightweight title against Floyd Schofield. There will be something for every boxing enthusiast, ensuring the event is one not to miss.
What makes this rematch particularly riveting is its potential impact on the legacies of both fighters. Should Beterbiev win once more, he would continue his reign over the division, bolstering his claim as one of the sport's greats. Conversely, if Bivol can outmaneuver Beterbiev, it would not only restore him to his former glory but also reshape the division's hierarchy.
With the fight just around the corner, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a thrilling spectacle. All eyes will be on Riyadh as fans from around the world tune in to witness history being made as Beterbiev defends his titles against Bivol's fierce quest for redemption. This encounter is more than just about the belts; it's about pride, legacy, and the unwavering pursuit of greatness.