The boxing world is already buzzing with excitement, looking toward the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, set to take place in October 2025 during the Riyadh Season. Promoter Bob Arum has confirmed that both fighters will engage in interim bouts prior to their long-awaited face-off, following Beterbiev’s majority decision victory over Bivol in their first encounter last October. This development has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike; will Bivol manage to learn from his earlier defeat, or will Beterbiev once again impose his will in the ring?
The initial fight showcased a classic battle of styles, with Beterbiev applying relentless pressure and wearing down Bivol in the later rounds. Despite losing the majority of rounds early on, Beterbiev’s power and stamina shone through as he turned the tide of the fight. The rematch will undoubtedly draw greater scrutiny, especially considering Bivol’s performance—which promised so much but ultimately fell short in the judgment of the judges.
As both fighters prepare for their interim bouts, it’s crucial to note that Beterbiev has a mandatory title defense against Michael Eifert, imposed by the IBF. This requirement foregrounds the strategic challenges faced by both fighters. Arum has shed little light on the specific matchups, but there is significant speculation about Bivol’s path. Promoter Eddie Hearn is keenly aware of Bivol’s vulnerabilities and will likely steer clear of high-risk opponents in pursuit of a lucrative rematch with Beterbiev.
Bivol’s next fight is especially important; a loss could irrevocably harm his chances in the impending rematch. Remaining cautious, Hearn might opt for fighters like Dan Azeez or Callum Smith, both of whom could offer Bivol a less perilous route. Conversely, facing a young powerhouse such as David Benavidez or an emerging talent in David Morrell could prove devastating. Thus, the interim fights serve as both a barometer and a crucible for the fighters aspiring to define their legacies.
The tactical dynamics displayed in their first encounter highlighted Bivol’s susceptibility to a particular style of combat. While Bivol is undoubtedly skilled, his ability to cope with pressure remains a significant concern. As evidenced in the latter rounds against Beterbiev—and in previous fights such as his memorable bout with Lyndon Arthur—Bivol tends to retract when faced with sustained offensive aggression or body shots.
Critics frequently cite this aspect of his fighting technique, suggesting that Bivol’s lack of power compounds this vulnerability. The pressure that Beterbiev exerted towards the latter part of their first fight forced Bivol into a defensive stance. In boxing, the ability to absorb and respond to damage is as critical as the ability to land effective punches. For Bivol, the rematch serves as a chance to demonstrate growth, but fans will be keenly watching to see whether he can adapt.
As anticipation builds for the rematch, questions loom large over each fighter’s trajectory leading up to that critical night. For Beterbiev, maintaining his status as a dominant force in the light heavyweight division is paramount. Meanwhile, Bivol must leverage his interim match as an opportunity for recalibration and reassessment. The financial backing from the Saudi promoters only adds to the stakes, amplifying the narrative of this impending clash.
Boxing, with its inherent unpredictability, often brings forth surprises, and in the wake of both interim fights, these two warriors will undoubtedly enter the ring with a wealth of experience and a heightened sense of urgency. As the calendar counts down to October 2025, the boxing community will be fervently engaged, dissecting matchups, studying strategies, and debating the fighters’ chances, all in anticipation of what promises to be a monumental showdown in Riyadh.