In an unexpected twist, the reigning undisputed light heavyweight champion, Artur Beterbiev, has revealed that despite his exceptional record and dominance in the ring, he is not a fan of boxing. Known for his formidable knockout power, Beterbiev has achieved an impressive 95% knockout rate in his professional career. His recent victory over Dmitry Bivol last October made him the first fighter in the 'four belt era' to hold all titles at 175lbs. This revelation comes as a surprise to many fans who naturally assume that fighters are passionate about the sport they excel in.

Beterbiev's Remarkable Journey and Surprising Confession

In the world of combat sports, few can match the impact of the 40-year-old Russian fighter. Beterbiev’s journey to becoming an undisputed champion began with a series of devastating knockouts. His powerful punches have left 20 out of 21 opponents on the canvas, including notable victories over Oleksandr Gvozdyk, Callum Smith, and Anthony Yarde. In a candid interview with Fight Hub TV, Beterbiev discussed his thoughts on facing Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, a unified super middleweight champion. He explained that while he once desired to fight Canelo for the belts, his interest has waned. “If it’s a mandatory or obligatory match, I would do it, but not by choice,” he stated.

Beterbiev also shared his views on Canelo’s upcoming mega-fight against Terence Crawford, scheduled for September. Despite admitting he is not a fan of boxing, he acknowledged the intrigue surrounding the bout. “It’s a very interesting fight, and I will watch it even though I’m not a fan,” he said. The champion’s unusual stance on the sport adds an intriguing layer to his persona. This weekend, Beterbiev will be back in action in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aiming to defend his titles against Bivol for the second time.

From a journalistic perspective, Beterbiev’s confession challenges the common assumption that athletes must love their sport to succeed. It raises questions about the motivations behind top-tier athletes and the complexities of human passion. While Beterbiev may not be a fan of boxing, his dedication to excellence and relentless pursuit of victory speak volumes. His story serves as a reminder that success in any field often transcends personal preferences and requires a deep commitment to mastery.