Dmitry Bivol claimed an exhilarating revenge victory over Artur Beterbiev to seize the title of the undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the world. This monumental bout took place at the ANB Arena in Riyadh and marked a significant chapter in their intense rivalry. Beterbiev, previously unbeaten and recognized as a formidable force in the ring, had handed Bivol his first career defeat when they faced off in October. However, Bivol emerged victorious in this rematch, successfully unifying the WBC, WBA, WBO, and IBF 175lb titles—essentially claiming all four major belts.
The fight was a rematch of epic proportions, which had both fighters determined to establish ultimate supremacy in the light-heavyweight division. The anticipation hung heavy in the air as they entered the ring, knowing that the stakes were higher than ever. The first round saw both athletes testing each other’s defenses with tentative jabs and quick counters, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown.
In the early exchanges, Beterbiev showcased his agility and speed, quickly closing the distance between himself and Bivol compared to their first encounter. A powerful left hook from Beterbiev caught Bivol off guard, but the challenger demonstrated his resilience by countering effectively with a precise right hand, which found its mark. As the rounds progressed, Bivol’s strategy became more aggressive; he held his ground and initiated a sudden flurry of attacks that pushed Beterbiev back. Yet, Beterbiev, unfazed, maintained his relentless forward approach, applying constant pressure on Bivol.
As the match unfolded, it became increasingly clear that neither fighter was willing to back down. The action heated up in the fourth round, with both fighters exchanging punishing blows. Beterbiev, known for his ferocity, landed a series of hard punches that forced Bivol to utilize lateral movement to evade further damage. Bivol’s boxing finesse shone through, as he countered with well-timed shots, demonstrating his ability to adapt and respond to the champion’s relentless onslaught.
Round after round, the intensity heightened. Beterbiev’s body shots were thunderous and hurtful, but Bivol responded with pinpoint accuracy, showcasing a blend of technique and strategy as he began accumulating points. Notably, Bivol found openings in Beterbiev’s defense, landing combinations that swayed the momentum in his favor. The seventh and eighth rounds saw Bivol firing on all cylinders as he capitalized on Beterbiev’s overreaching punches, delivering rapid-fire combinations that left the champion reeling.
As they progressed to the latter rounds, with both fighters visibly fatigued yet determined, Bivol’s discipline and conditioning began to shine through. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and deliver accurate counters became pivotal. By the eleventh round, both boxers were trading heavy shots, and the audience could palpably feel the tension, knowing that the fight could swing either way depending on who landed the decisive strikes in the championship rounds.
In the final moments of the final round, the two engaged in a thrilling exchange, with Beterbiev landing a vicious right that inflicted a cut over Bivol’s eye. However, the fighter’s resolve prevailed as he pushed through the pain, trading blows right until the last bell rang. Following the fight, Bivol’s majority decision victory was a testament to his resilience, preparation, and desire to reclaim his standing in the sport.
“I did enough,” Bivol reflected afterwards. “I was better; I was pushing myself more, I was more confident, I was lighter. I just wanted to win so much today. I had to punch more.”
Despite the intensity of their rivalry, the aftermath revealed a sense of mutual respect, even as the competitive spirit remained alive. Beterbiev acknowledged his opponent by saying, “I congratulate Bivol and his team,” albeit expressing that the decision for a rematch was not initially his desire. Nevertheless, the door remains open for a potential third encounter, hinting that their rivalry may still have more chapters left to unfold in the ring.
World of sports 
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