Eddie Hearn has heaped high praise on Dmitry Bivol this week, describing the Russian as the best light heavyweight on the planet.
Hearn has been full of praise for Bivol’s national rival Artur Beterbiev, however was of little doubt when asked who he thought the best in the division was.
Speaking on the DAZN Boxing Show, Hearn said:
“Make no mistake, the best 175lber in the world right now is Dmitry Bivol. Unquestionable.”
“It’s a tremendous fight, I rate Artur Beterbiev highly, he’s so exciting.”
2023 is shaping up to be a significant year for the 175lb division. Last weekend saw Beterbiev retain his WBC, WBO and IBF world titles with a stunning eighth round stoppage of Anthony Yarde in London, and fans were quick to call for a four belt clash with Bivol.
WBA belt holder Bivol looks set for a rematch with Canelo Alvarez later in the year, however Hearn revealed in a recent interview that this looks to take place at super middleweight for all four of the Mexican’s world titles.
A fight between Bivol and Beterbiev is widely regarded as one of the best to be made in the entire sport, however there are significant promotional and broadcast barriers that would need to be overcome before the two men can get in the ring.
Beterbiev looks set for a return to the UK in the summer, after it was ordered at the WBC convention in Aclapulco that he must defend against mandatory challenger Callum Smith or vacate their iteration of the world title.
The boxing public will hope that an undisputed showdown between the two Russians can be made whilst both are still in their visible prime, especially given the fact Beterbiev has just turned 38.