Denis Lebedev, the legendary Russian boxer, has weighed in on the highly anticipated rematch between his fellow countrymen, Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Scheduled for February 22, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this bout promises to be a significant moment for both fighters as they vie for the title of absolute world champion in the light heavyweight division.
Reflecting on their first encounter, which took place on October 12, 2024, Beterbiev triumphed over Bivol by majority decision, with judges scoring the bout 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112. This result awarded Beterbiev multiple championship titles, including the IBF, WBC, WBO, WBA-Super, and IBO belts. Now, as both boxers prepare for the rematch, Lebedev has shared his views on what fans might expect.
“I don't like to jump the gun, but I think the rematch will be somewhat similar to the first fight,” he expressed during an interview with the YouTube channel RB Sports. “I believe Bivol needs to do something like he did against Saul Alvarez—gradually build himself up during the fight. That was what happened in the first fight, but at the end, there was no final push, which we didn’t see. I think that's how the rematch will go.”
This strategic advice is particularly relevant as Lebedev outlined the challenges Bivol faced during their initial clash. He observed, “Guys will be trying hard. It's clear to everyone they will both be aiming for more, so the fight will be even more dynamic and interesting.” With such high stakes on the line, both fighters know the urgency of delivering their best performances.
What differentiates this upcoming bout is the reckoning of past performance, both mentally and physically. “A champion must take risks! But the risk must be justified. Of course, there's no favorite for this fight,” Lebedev noted. His insights draw attention to the ramifications of their previous encounter, where some observers still debate the fairness of Beterbiev's victory.
Lebedev, himself now retired, recognizes the potential for growth from each fighter’s prior experiences and how these experiences will shape their strategies moving forward. He mentioned, “I was among those who thought Beterbiev's victory was justified, even though I was cheering for Dima.”
The rematch signifies more than just titles; it symbolizes the fighters' journeys to reclaim or solidify their legacies. With opinions on the fairness of the first judges' scoring still fresh and divided, the upcoming fight carries added weight—for both boxers and their loyal followers.
Fans and analysts alike are poised to witness whether Bivol can leverage the lessons learned from his initial encounter with Beterbiev. Will he implement Lebedev's strategic recommendations, or will Beterbiev maintain his edge?
With the first round fast approaching, all eyes will be on the ring as these two titans of light heavyweight boxing prepare for another monumental chapter. The fight is set to be broadcast live on the First Channel, as well as streaming services DAZN and ESPN+, with the expected start time at 11:00 PM MSK. The action promises to deliver not just entertainment but perhaps the chance for redemption.
The match-up poses compelling questions about what champions truly require: power, resilience, or the ability to learn and adapt. Whatever the outcome, the boxing world will surely be watching closely.