Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol are set to clash again this Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for the highly anticipated rematch of their October battle. This event is not only significant for both fighters but is being touted as one of the most important boxing cards of the current era, with numerous title fights lined up alongside the main event.
Beterbiev (21-0, 20 KOs), the undisputed light heavyweight champion, will defend his WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles against Bivol (23-1, 12 KOs). Their first encounter ended with Beterbiev winning by majority decision, but the fight was controversial, with many observers believing Bivol had done enough to earn the win. This rematch allows both fighters to settle the score, with Bivol eager to reclaim honor after his first professional loss.
Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with excitement over the card, which features exceptional fights set to commence at 11 a.m. ET on DAZN pay-per-view. The main event is expected to begin around 6 p.m. ET. Boxing aficionados are anticipating not only the rematch but also significant bouts including Joseph Parker against Martin Bakole for the WBO interim heavyweight title and Shakur Stevenson defending his WBC lightweight crown against Josh Padley. The undercard also promises exciting matchups, indicating the overall depth and competitiveness of the fight night.
The previous showdown between Beterbiev and Bivol was marked by high stakes and intense moments. Beterbiev, who has maintained a strong knockout rate throughout his career, found himself pushed to the limit by Bivol, becoming the first opponent to take him the full distance. “It’s been good for me. A very simple boxer will come out and box,” Beterbiev remarked post-fight, acknowledging the challenge Bivol posed.
Looking forward to the rematch, both fighters have openly addressed their strategies. Bivol, reflecting on the first match, claimed, “I have to be smarter and faster, harder — everything needs to be improved” to succeed this time around. His acknowledgment of the need to maintain focus throughout all 12 rounds underlines his determination to leave nothing to chance.
Beterbiev enters this bout as the slight betting favorite, indicating the respect he garners among pundits and fans. Still, many experts are leaning toward Bivol to potentially claim victory, especially considering adjustments he can make based on insights from their first fight. “If I’m going to improve, I have to push harder and stay consistent,” Bivol affirmed, reiteration of his commitment to learn from past experiences.
The rematch holds special significance not only for the fighters but also for the boxing world, as it seeks to create clarity where there was contention before. Fans have shown overwhelming support for the fight card, with many eager to tune in for what promises to be electrifying action.
Weigh-ins leading up to the fight have incited more fanfare, with both fighters appearing focused and ready. Experts are delivering mixed predictions, largely due to the performance dynamics exhibited during their first encounter. Some analysts suggest Bivol's technique and ring iq may give him the edge he needs to secure the win this time, as he demonstrated the ability to outscore Beterbiev statistically, landing 142 punches compared to Beterbiev's 137.
Details on booking the fight have also surfaced, with viewers having the option to purchase the event on DAZN or through traditional cable platforms like Sky Sports Box Office. With pricing set at $25.99 for the DAZN pay-per-view, the fight is being positioned as accessible for fans eager to witness what’s being dubbed as the ‘Fight of the Century’.
Boxing is once again at the forefront, especially with passionate supporters ready to witness history as two elite fighters step inside the ring, each seeking rightful recognition as the best light heavyweight champion. A night filled with drama, technique, and raw power awaits those who tune in to this epic showdown.
To sum it up, Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 is not just about titles — it’s about pride, redemption, and the pursuit of boxing glory. Will Bivol rise to the occasion and claim back his title, or will Beterbiev prove once more why he remains the champion? Only time will tell when the bell rings this Saturday!