Bivol Takes the Crown: Thrilling Majority Decision Over Beterbiev for Light-Heavyweight Title

The electrifying rematch between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev concluded with Bivol's triumph, marking a sensational turn in the light-heavyweight division. The fight, held in the opulent setting of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, restored Bivol’s place at the top as the undisputed champion. The bout was closely contested, but Bivol’s strategic prowess and precision in the ring were key elements that led to his victory.

The scorecards showcased the intense nature of the fight, reading 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113, tipping in favor of Bivol. While the first clash between these top-tier boxers ended contentiously, with many feeling Bivol had been unfairly overshadowed, this rematch clarified any doubts.

Bivol’s Strategic Edge

Bivol threw a total of 170 punches compared to Beterbiev’s 121, highlighting his dominance through efficiency and accuracy. The fight witnessed Bivol's refined techniques, with improved footwork allowing him to land shots with pinpoint efficiency and craft on the defense to deflect Beterbiev’s power punches. The manner in which Bivol managed the later rounds was particularly striking, as he claimed dominance in five of the final six rounds through relentless pressure and sharp counter-punching.

Undercard Highlights

The event's undercard also brought notable moments, enhancing the tournament's excitement. Former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker delivered a powerful performance, defeating Martin Bakole with a second-round TKO. Parker’s aggressive style left Bakole unable to respond, showcasing his readiness to climb back up the heavyweight ladder.

Elsewhere, Shakur Stevenson showcased his ring mastery with a ninth-round TKO over Josh Padley, maintaining his ascent in the boxing world as a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi faced off in a tactical bout, with Smith taking a unanimous decision win, affirming his status in the light-heavyweight division.

Though Beterbiev was visibly battered—with swelling and a cut to show for his efforts—he took the loss in stride, indicating a willingness to step back into the ring should the possibility for a trilogy arise. His resilience remains undiminished, as fans worldwide eagerly await the potential for another chapter in this thrilling boxing saga.