This Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, all eyes will be on the highly anticipated rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Both fighters are at a pivotal point in their careers, with their legacies hanging in the balance. A victory in this bout will not only solidify their place in boxing history but also grant them the undisputed light heavyweight title, encompassing belts from the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF. Financially, both boxers stand to gain substantially, with earnings estimated to exceed $10 million each. This fight marks a critical juncture, as there is no rematch clause, making it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for either fighter.
The atmosphere leading up to this event has been charged with anticipation. Both Beterbiev and Bivol are experiencing career highs, both inside and outside the ring. Despite past controversies involving judges' decisions, Bivol chose to focus on preparation rather than pointing fingers. The rematch carries immense significance, as the winner will claim the undisputed light heavyweight title, an achievement that would cement their status as top contenders in the sport. Beterbiev's previous technical knockout against Callum Smith in early 2024 and Bivol's triumph over Canelo Alvarez in 2022 have set high expectations for this encounter.
Financially, the stakes are sky-high. Sources indicate that Beterbiev earned $1.3 million for his win against Smith, while Bivol pocketed $5 million for defeating Alvarez. For this rematch, both fighters are expected to earn significantly more, potentially surpassing $10 million. The lucrative nature of this fight underscores its importance in the boxing world, drawing attention from fans and industry insiders alike. The financial rewards reflect the magnitude of the event and the skill level of the participants.
In addition to the main event, there is speculation about future matchups. Turki Alalshikh invited Mexican-American boxer David Benavidez to watch the fight from the front row. It is rumored that the winner of this rematch may face Benavidez in a subsequent bout. Regardless of the outcome, Saturday's fight will close a significant chapter for both Beterbiev and Bivol. With no rematch clause in place, this opportunity is truly now or never for these two formidable athletes.
The upcoming showdown between Beterbiev and Bivol promises to be a historic moment in boxing. As they prepare for this decisive encounter, both fighters know that their performance on Saturday will determine their future in the sport. The absence of a rematch clause adds an extra layer of drama, making this fight even more compelling. Fans around the world eagerly await what promises to be an unforgettable night of boxing.