Artur Beterbiev has etched his name in the annals of history. He defeated Dmitry Bivol to become the undisputed light-heavyweight world champion. The electrifying bout, which took place at Riyadh's Kingdom Arena lived up to its billing as a battle of titans. Here's how it went down.
A Night of Firsts in Saudi Arabia
Anticipating fans couldn’t be more excited watching the undefeated champions step into the ring. Beterbiev, the Russian-born Canadian, came in with his WBC, WBO, and IBF belts. Bivol, on the other hand, proudly represented his WBA title. The stakes couldn't have been higher, as the winner would walk away as the first undisputed light-heavyweight champion since the legendary Roy Jones Jr. in 1999.
As the bell rang, it became clear that this wasn't going to be a typical Beterbiev fight. Known for his knockout power, the 39-year-old found himself in unfamiliar territory against the slick Bivol. For the first time in his professional career, Beterbiev was forced to go the distance, showcasing a different side of his boxing prowess.
Two Styles On Display
Bivol started strong. His jab was working overtime as he tried to keep the pressure-fighter at bay, and his fluid movement and quick combinations seemed to frustrate Beterbiev in the early rounds. However, as the fight progressed, Beterbiev's relentless forward march began to pay off.
"I wanted to box more, I don't like this fight. I was a little bit uncomfortable," Beterbiev admitted post-fight. "Usually, I'm not waiting for the bell!"
Despite Bivol's best efforts, Beterbiev's power punches started to find their mark more frequently as the fight wore on. And it paid off. The turning point came in the later rounds when Beterbiev unleashed a barrage that had Bivol on the ropes. Quite literally.
To his credit, Bivol showed tremendous heart and skill. If anything, he became the first man to hear the final bell against Beterbiev. Withstanding the onslaught and firing back with sharp combinations kept the outcome in doubt until the very end.
When the dust settled, the judges' scorecards revealed a majority decision in favor of Beterbiev. One judge saw it even at 114-114, while the other two scored it 115-113 and 116-112 for the new undisputed champion.
Despite the defeat, Bivol showed his class, extending his congratulations to Beterbiev. "I just congratulate Artur and his team, he deserves it. I did my job, I felt I could do better, but that's the opinion of the judges. He won."
A New Light-Heavyweight Boxing Era
With this victory, Beterbiev not only unified all four major belts. He also solidified his position as the man to beat in the 175-pound division.
Despite the win, fans will be looking for what's to come next. Will we see a rematch? Or will new challengers step up to test the undisputed king?