Dmitry Bivol’s recent victory over Artur Beterbiev has solidified his status as one of boxing’s elite. By reclaiming his WBA title and simultaneously snaring the WBC, IBF, and WBO belts, Bivol has not only avenged his sole career loss but also reinstated himself at the pinnacle of the light-heavyweight division. At 34 years old, it’s not just his skill in the ring that’s impressive; it’s also his strategic mindset following such a high-pressure fight. Speaking to the press post-fight, Bivol reflected on his future options, suggesting that he is ready to entertain fights at both 175 and potentially 168 pounds, or even making the leap to cruiserweight. His ability to navigate these weight classes opens up an exhilarating array of possibilities that fans and analysts are keen to explore.
What makes Bivol’s situation particularly intriguing is the depth of compelling matchups available to him. There’s a palpable buzz regarding a possible third bout with Beterbiev, especially given that their rivalry is currently tied at one win each. This series has already proved to be a masterclass in boxing technique, with both fighters showcasing their unique styles. Fans are clamoring for a definitive conclusion to their rivalry—after all, it seems almost unjust to leave it at one win apiece.
In addition to this, the idea of a clash with David Benavidez, a fighter known for his aggressive style and remarkable power, offers another layer of excitement. Their contrasting approaches to boxing—Bivol’s methodical and technical skill against Benavidez’s relentless forward pressure—would make for an electrifying showdown. Bivol’s openness to fight any opponent is a testament to his self-assuredness and respect for the sport. He stated, “I just wait for the best offer and I say yes,” further emphasizing his readiness to engage in high-stakes matchups.
Additionally, there remains the tantalizing prospect of a rematch against Canelo Alvarez. The previous encounter saw Bivol employ a strategy that effectively neutralized Alvarez’s offensive capabilities, leading to a unanimous decision victory. However, such a high-profile rematch would likely be laden with questions. Would Alvarez, having experienced the saga of defeat, be eager to face Bivol again? The financial incentives of this bout could be substantial for Bivol, not to mention the importance of the fight for Alvarez’s legacy.
If Bivol is to indeed make the leap to cruiserweight, a duel against Jai Opetaia also paints a promising picture. Opetaia, the current 200-pound champion, represents a fresh challenge and could potentially elevate Bivol’s profile even further should he be able to assert his dominance in that weight class. The transition to cruiserweight, however, raises important questions regarding Bivol’s ability to maintain performance and effectiveness against bigger opponents.
With all these options on the table, one must consider where Bivol stands in the realm of pound-for-pound rankings. His recent performance against Beterbiev, often referred to as a career-best showing, demands recognition. While subjective, placing Bivol within the top five of current pound-for-pound rankings seems justified. This recognition is not only reflective of his accomplishments but also of his tactical brilliance and adaptability in the ring.
Dmitry Bivol stands at a fascinating juncture in his career. With enticing matchups on the horizon—be it a trilogy with Beterbiev, a face-off with Benavidez, or a rematch with Canelo Alvarez—the future looks bright for the champion. Regardless of his next move, one thing is clear: boxing fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling chapter in Bivol’s already illustrious career.