Running it Back: Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2

Their first fight went down four months ago. Such a quick turnaround to fight two is surprising in today’s boxing.

Fight one was very close—each round. Bivol did better in the early rounds, while Beterbiev found his grove later. Nip and tuck.

Some complained the fight was boring. Some probably prefer the tough man contest of boxing: Toe-to-toe and brawling. I’m not being a snob – those fights can be exciting, but for sheer talent and technique – please see Artur Beterbiev versus Dmitry Bivol one.

These guys are part of “The Sweet Science” class. They’re responsible defensively. Since they’re the best in their divisions, many predicted a war. It doesn’t always out that way.

What worked out was a hyper-competitive intense 12-rounder that could have gone either way.

Both fighters were disappointed with their performances.

“I didn’t like my job,” Bivol said. “I knew it was some doubt inside my head inside some of the fans, and I want to win always without doubt.”

“I wanted to box today with more quality,” said Beterbiev. “I don’t know why, but I didn’t like this fight. But I’ll be better one day. … If His Excellency [Turki Alalshikh] wants [the rematch], then we can do it.”

And there you have it.

The rematch is here.

The oddsmakers have installed Beterbiev as a slight favorite.

Beterbiev is 40 years old.

He’s fought 21 times – scoring 20 knockouts.

Injuries have been a problem.

He has looked more vulnerable in his last few fights. Anthony Yarde was leading on two of three scorecards when Beterbiev caught and stopped him in round eight. Callum Smith had pockets of success – but Beterbiev still tracked him down and won.

Bivol outboxed him early during their first fight, but as the fight wore on, Beterbiev found a grove. He’s patient and calculating, always building. He’s like a train locomotive gaining momentum.

Beterbiev is strong, very determined, and heavy-handed. His punches are short and accurate – and deadly. His jab is solid.

Bivol is more of a boxer than a puncher. His footwork is excellent. His record stands at 23 wins and a lone loss to Beterbiev. He’s scored 12 knockouts, only one in the last six years. Bivol is a counterpuncher of note. He beat Canelo Alvarez silly when they fought in 2022. He stings opponents with accuracy and speed. Like Beterbiev, he uses his jab to set up combinations. The speed of the jab can change.

It’s a tried and true method.

Bivol was classy in defeat. He congratulated Beterbiev and his team, but don’t think for a second it was easy.

Bivol is motivated for some get back.

“Before, I so wanted to have the belts and nothing else but today I want not only the belts, I want revenge. I want to avenge what I did before. Not only belts. It’s not only about belts now.”

Beterbiev wants a stoppage.

“I don’t know why I did not knock him out,” he said in an article posted on DAZN.com last month. “He was lucky that night. I think February 22, we are going to see a good fight.”