On Saturday (Oct., 12, 2024), Russian knockout artist Artur Beterbiev made historical past by handing grasp tactician Dmitry Bivol the primary lack of his skilled profession contained in the Kingdom Enviornment in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Not solely did Beterbiev rating the very best win of his profession, however he additionally turned undisputed Gentle Heavyweight champion within the course of.
The combat itself was extremely aggressive. Bivol’s jab, counter punching, and motion managed the early rounds, however issues began to tighten up because the combat wore on. Beterbiev’s highly effective mixtures slowly wore Bivol down, leaving him extra flat-footed and weak within the closing sections of the combat.
It was a combat that may very well be argued in favor of both man, however many had been shocked by the ultimate scorecards. Beterbiev not solely received, however one decide awarded him eight rounds with a scorecard of 116-112, which felt a bit unreasonable. Instantly, there have been cries on-line of corruption and incompetence alike.
Probably the most highly effective determine in boxing, His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, may be thought of Crew Bivol right here. After the choice, Alalshikh revealed that he scored the combat for Bivol, and his proposed resolution is a rematch.
“This was one of many nice fights of the final 20 years I believe,” Alalshikh informed Charlie Parsons (by way of Michael Benson). “However I don’t suppose the end result was honest, in my view. The 2 fighters are like my brothers, however I believe Bivol received two rounds extra. I’ll focus and I’ll attempt to do the rematch. In the event that they settle for, we’ll do it.”
Will they settle for? It’s very doubtless that Bivol needs one other probability to set issues appropriate. Beterbiev, nonetheless, is 39 years outdated and underwent a significant knee surgical procedure over summer time. He could choose to stroll away after upsetting his youthful foe, and no person might actually blame him.
After all, the deep pockets of Alalshikh have a manner of convincing athletes.
For full Beterbiev vs. Bivol outcomes and play-by-play, click on HERE!
