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Artur Beterbiev triumphed over Dmitry Bivol by majority decision to become the undisputed light-heavyweight world champion in a highly anticipated bout that lived up to the hype in Saudi Arabia. In a contest that showcased the skills of two undefeated champions, Beterbiev’s relentless pressure and power punching ultimately secured him the victory.
Bivol, 33, started strong, using superior movement and combination punches to take the early rounds. However, Beterbiev, 39, was undeterred and began to impose his style as the fight progressed. The judges scored the match 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112 in favor of Beterbiev, marking a historic moment as he became the first undisputed champion in the division since 2002 and the first ever in the four-belt era.
“I feel not bad. I did not do well today. I wanted to box with more quality,” Beterbiev humbly reflected after the fight. He is now the WBC, WBA (Super), IBF, and WBO champion, while Bivol suffered his first defeat in 24 bouts.
Bivol expressed his frustration, stating, “I am a warrior. I don’t know, I did my job but I felt like I could do better; it was just the opinion of some judges.”
In the chief support bout, Fabio Wardley retained the British heavyweight title with a stunning first-round stoppage victory over Frazer Clarke in a rematch of their previous fight, which was deemed a fight of the year contender. Wardley, 29, landed a heavy right hand that hurt Clarke and followed it up with another fierce shot, forcing the referee to halt the contest as Clarke, despite getting to his feet, was unable to continue.
A Fight for the Purist
The bout between Beterbiev and Bivol was a match for boxing purists, featuring two champions with distinct styles. Bivol started watchfully, circling the ring and working behind his jab, while Beterbiev showcased his boxing skills alongside his renowned power. A pivotal moment came in the fifth round when Beterbiev landed a vicious body shot, shifting the momentum in his favor.
Both fighters experienced moments of vulnerability in a thrilling seventh round, where Bivol’s combination stunned Beterbiev, who quickly retaliated with powerful strikes. As the fight approached its conclusion, Beterbiev’s corner urged him to secure a knockdown, but while he couldn’t maintain his perfect knockout record, he dominated the championship rounds, winning the last three on all judges’ scorecards.
Beterbiev’s historic win cements his legacy among the all-time greats in the light-heavyweight division, yet the closeness of the fight may lead to calls for a rematch. Bivol’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed his displeasure with the decision, stating, “I don’t want to disrespect Beterbiev, but that judge should never work again.”
Wardley Surges Ahead
In a dominating display, Wardley outclassed Clarke in their rematch, scoring a decisive first-round stoppage. Wardley, who secured his 18th professional victory, highlighted his powerful punches, stating, “I’ve got dynamite power in each hand. Once I’ve hurt someone, I know I can get rid of them.” Clarke, who received medical attention in the ring, congratulated the champion before departing.
