Under the bright lights of the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, boxing enthusiasts are gearing up for the highly anticipated rematch between undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev and challenger Dmitry Bivol on February 22, 2025. This bout, dubbed 'The Last Crescendo,' promises not only to deliver electrifying matches but to also settle the score following their previous encounter which ended controversially, leaving Bivol thirsting for retribution.
When the two first clashed last October, Beterbiev emerged victorious via majority decision after what many perceived as a tightly contested battle. The fight, which marked Beterbiev's first venture beyond the distance of 12 rounds, saw him stifle Bivol's often effective counter-punching style and land key blows as the rounds progressed. With their respective profiles on the line, the stakes are immeasurable for both fighters.
Bivol, determined to reclaim his standing, emphasized the importance of maintaining pressure throughout the fight. "I have to do it not only last rounds, I have to do it all fight," he stated, highlighting the need for continuous improvement and focus during every minute of the match.
Beterbiev, entering the ring as the defending champion, is aware of the expectations placed on him. After his first encounter with Bivol, he acknowledged, "My performance in the first fight was not perfect, I know I can do much more this time." This admission reflects his commitment to delivering a superior performance and retaining his title.
On the undercard, fans can expect to see heavyweight bout action as former champion Joseph Parker faces rising contender Martin Bakole after Bakole stepped in on short notice for IBF champion Daniel Dubois, who withdrew due to illness just days before the fight. The card also features WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson squaring off against Josh Padley, another last-minute replacement, and various other significant bouts, making this event one of the most loaded fight cards to date.
Saturday’s event kicks off at 10:30 AM ET for early prelims on DAZN PPV, culminating with the main event ring walks anticipated around 6 PM ET. The importance of this rematch extends beyond personal bragging rights; it has significant ramifications for their respective careers. Both fighters are not only among the top contenders of their division but also occupy spaces on most pound-for-pound lists, making their matchup pivotal.
Statistics from their first battle reveal the intense nature of their competition. Bivol landed more total punches—142 against Beterbiev’s 137—but his latter lacked the definitive power behind Beterbiev’s blows, which earned him the decision. The dynamic of their styles, with Bivol’s precision versus Beterbiev’s raw power, is likely to be at the forefront again.
It is worth noting Beterbiev’s impressive resume, boasting 21 victories with 20 coming by way of knockout. This knockout percentage, one of the highest among current champions, keeps all eyes on the possibility of finishing the match ahead of schedule. Conversely, Bivol's record of 23 wins with 12 knockouts demonstrates his capability to go the distance and outperform opponents throughout extended fights.
With the anticipation building and the fighters sharing the stage together during press events, viewers have witnessed the tension bubbling under the surface. “It’s good, I have to work for it,” Bivol commented on his chance for redemption, accentuating the grind he has undergone to prepare for this rematch, and his resolve to improve upon their previous encounter.
Boxing fans worldwide are eager to see whether Bivol’s focused preparation can turn the tables or if Beterbiev’s power and experience will prevail once again. Each fighter has promised their best performance, and with both men training ardently, there's no telling what outcome the match could deliver.
Stay tuned as drama unfurls this February 22, 2025, at the Kingdom Arena, heralding what promises to be another historic moment for the light heavyweight division.