Saturday night saw Dmitry Bivol secure a unanimous points victory over German challenger Michael Eifert to retain his light heavyweight world titles.
This was Dmitry Bivol’s first fight since defeating Artur Beterbiev in February 2025 to become undisputed light heavyweight world champion.
In August 2025, Bivol underwent successful surgery to repair a long-standing herniated disc in his lower back. As a result, his return to the ring was delayed, with some questioning how he would look upon his comeback.
However, following a dominant performance from the Russian, there is now widespread speculation about what comes next.
Option 1 – Artur Beterbiev 3
A third fight with Artur Beterbiev is seen by many as the most likely option for Bivol’s next fight.
Given the history between the pair, with both men having secured a victory over the other, it sets up a perfect trilogy to determine who will prevail.
The commercial value of this fight cannot be ignored. Both previous bouts took place in Riyadh, highlighting the heavy Saudi investment in this particular matchup.
In addition, this fight does not need to be built or promoted in the same way as a different opponent. The unfinished business speaks for itself.
Both contests were fantastic displays of boxing ability and sheer will to win. Therefore, many believe a trilogy fight simply could not disappoint.
Option 2 – Callum Smith
Callum Smith is the WBO Interim Light Heavyweight Champion, positioning himself as a mandatory challenger for Bivol.
The Englishman was due to fight David Morrell in April this year but withdrew after sustaining an injury.
For Bivol, this is a fight that must be seriously considered because of Smith’s mandatory position with the threat of having to vacate world titles if he chooses not to follow this route.
However, the main point in the eyes of many is the difference in public interest and commercial value when compared to an Artur Beterbiev trilogy.
There is simply more interest in a third fight with Beterbiev, along with an almost certain higher financial reward.
As a result, Bivol faces a decision. He can retain his titles and honour his mandatories, or pursue opportunities that offer a greater financial return.
Option 3 – David Benavidez
David Benavidez is currently a world champion at both light heavyweight and cruiserweight.
His last fight ended in a sixth-round stoppage victory over Gilberto Ramirez in Las Vegas to claim the WBO World Cruiserweight title.
News recently broke that the WBC has officially ordered David Benavidez to challenge Noel Mikaelian for the cruiserweight championship.
However, Benavidez has not vacated his WBC Light Heavyweight title. Consequently, speculation continues about a possible return to the division.
Many would consider a showdown between Bivol and the Mexican Monster to be one of the best fights in boxing.
Bivol’s clever footwork and boxing ability against Benavidez’s powerful, relentless style would surely create a fight for the ages.
Whilst a trilogy with Beterbiev remains the most obvious option in the eyes of many, Bivol must consider all possibilities when deciding on his next opponent as speculation continues.
