It has been reported that Lyndon Arthur will challenge for his first world title on the huge card being planned for Saudi Arabia on December 23.
Arthur has been on a solid rebuild after losing his all-British rematch with fellow light heavyweight Anthony Yarde in December 2021. That came a year after he took a win that surprised many in the pair’s first meeting.
He has since beaten the likes of Joel McIntyre and most recently knocked out Braian Nahuel Suarez after being dropped himself in September to win the vacant IBO world light hea vyweight belt.
Boxing journalist Dan Rafael has now said Arthur will be fighting WBA light heavyweight world champion Dimtry Bivol next.
Per source, Dmitry Bivol will still defend his WBA light heavyweight title on the Dec. 23 Saudi Arabia card but it will be against Lyndon Arthur. The deal with Richie Rivera was not finalized. #boxing
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) November 14, 2023
Bivol represents a huge step up for Arthur. The Russian’s last two fights were the biggest of his career – especially his impressive and one-sided shutout of Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in May 2022, making him a pound-for-pound star in the eyes of many.
The technician boxed well throughout, peppering Canelo – who was moving up from super-middleweight – with punches while never really getting caught himself.
Canelo has often spoken of his desire for a rematch but Bivol instead went on to take another 12-round points win over tough Mexican Gilberto Ramirez in November 2022. ‘Zurdo’ was previously undefeated in 44 fights.
Bivol continues to chase an undisputed bout with unified champion Artur Beterbiev – a man he recently admitted was the biggest puncher in the sport – but WBC rules may prevent him, as a Russian national, fighting for its title.
Arthur’s world title challenge is expected to be made official today, and will feature alongside Anthony Joshua-Otto Wallin and Deontay Wilder-Joseph Parker. IBF Cruiserweight World Champion Jai Opetaia will also feature, as will British heavyweight Daniel Dubois.