Dmitry Bivol secured a major win against Artur Beterbiev early Sunday morning at ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This victory came as a rematch for the undisputed light heavyweight championship, which Beterbiev had won in October 2024 by a narrow majority decision.
This fight, held 133 days later, was just as intense as their first encounter. In the end, Bivol edged out the judges with scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 114-114. His higher activity level in the ring played a key role in the decision.
Bivol felt more at ease in this match, saying, “I didn’t feel pressure too much this time, and I just wanted to work from the first round until the end of the 12th.” His confidence grew throughout the fight, allowing him to push himself harder and perform better than in the first bout.
During the fight, both boxers displayed their skills, having already faced each other before. Bivol made a key adjustment by standing more grounded rather than constantly moving. This change allowed him to effectively use his jab and stop Beterbiev’s powerful punches early on.
Still, Beterbiev, who is 40, pressed on, forcing Bivol into a fast-paced battle. Bivol managed to land several combinations that got past Beterbiev’s defenses. However, Beterbiev’s body shots started to take a toll on Bivol, especially in the fifth round, where he aggressively targeted both Bivol’s body and head, trying to dominate the ring.
In the championship rounds, Bivol appeared fresher and more determined. Unlike their first match, when Bivol seemed to lose control, he stayed focused and active as the fight neared its conclusion. Although Beterbiev scored a late hit that opened a cut above Bivol’s left eye, Bivol managed to clinch and avoid any significant damage.
