Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol went to war in Riyadh last weekend – more tactically and mentally than physically – and the boxing universe is calling for an immediate rematch. However, it now appears as though both men could return against alternate opponents before they meet again.
Beterbiev edged a controversial split-decision in Saudi Arabia to become the first undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the four-belt era and the first 175lber to hold all recognised world titles since Roy Jones Jr. in 2002.
Yet, with plenty of fans believing that Bivol had done enough to get the nod on the scorecards, it seemed as though a rematch was inevitable
However, recent reports that Turki Al-Alshikh has been deterred from staging major ‘Riyadh Season’ boxing events outside of the Kingdom appear to have disrupted any plans for a rematch in the near-future.
Instead, Beterbiev’s promoter Bob Arum explained to Dan Rafael that any second encounter between the Russian-born rivals would be expected to take place in around 12 months’ time at the very earliest.
“Riyadh Season ends in February, the earliest date for a rematch would be next October (when the next festival begins).”
Consequently, considering the negative financial impact that staging a fight outside of Riyadh would have, Arum added his presumption that both Beterbiev and Bivol would take interim fights in preparation for the continuation of their salivating rivalry.
“So it may mean that each of these guys fight one more time against other opponents, and then for October of next year they do the rematch. I think that is the likely, from a business standpoint, the likeliest thing that will happen and I think that’s a reasonable thing — if guys take interim fights, if they’re amenable to it.”
As for whom those contests may be against, Quebec fan-favourite Beterbiev has been ordered to defend his titles against IBF mandatory challenger Michael Eifert – who upset another Canadian national in Jean Pascal when they fought last year.
A showdown with Eifert would assumably sell well in Canada and would allow Beterbiev to have a homecoming as the undisputed light-heavyweight champion in a relatively low-risk contest as not to hamper his plans to rematch Bivol
Meanwhile, Bivol would be a harder sell to the public and may opt for a more recognised opponent such as Callum Smith or a well-ranked one like undefeated Venezuelan Albert Ramirez, who is mentored by Beterbiev.
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