Dmitry Bivol secured a hard-fought majority decision victory over Artur Beterbiev, with judges scoring the bout 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113. This win allowed Bivol to reclaim his WBA Super Champion title and seize the WBC, WBO, and IBF belts.
The Kyrgyzstan-born Russian now stands as the undisputed 175-pound champion, handing the formidable Beterbiev his first professional loss. Notably, Beterbiev had previously defeated Bivol in October of last year.
From the opening bell, Bivol executed a flawless game plan, leveraging his hand speed and accuracy to keep Beterbiev at bay. Despite Beterbiev’s relentless pressure and heavy hands, Bivol effectively managed the distance, countering with precise shots.
In the third round, Beterbiev intensified his body attack, landing several punishing blows. However, Bivol remained composed, responding with swift combinations. The fifth round saw Beterbiev’s power momentarily push Bivol onto the back foot.
While Bivol’s speed allowed him to control several rounds, Beterbiev’s power punches kept the contest competitive. In the championship rounds, Beterbiev’s high-volume assault seemed to give him the upper hand in exchanges.
The bout was a testament to the technical prowess and resilience of both fighters. After the fight, Bivol expressed his satisfaction: “I pushed myself to improve for this fight,” the champion remarked in the ring.
With this victory, Bivol not only avenged his prior defeat but also solidified his status as one of the premier boxers in the sport today. This outcome sets the stage for a potential trilogy in what has become one of boxing’s most captivating rivalries of the decade.
