Artur Beterbiev’s recent victory over Dmitry Bivol has elevated him to the pinnacle of the light heavyweight division, capturing the undisputed championship in a thrilling battle that highlighted both boxers’ skills. With this success, the question now arises: who should Beterbiev face next? John Scully, Beterbiev’s trainer, has put forth two fascinating options: David Benavidez and Joshua Buatsi. Each fighter presents unique challenges and merits, ensuring that the next fight can garner significant interest from boxing fans around the globe.
David Benavidez, known for his aggressive fighting style and striking KO record (29-0, 24 KOs), offers a compelling matchup for Beterbiev. Unlike Bivol, who adopted a defensive strategy to secure a scorecard advantage, Benavidez is more likely to engage in a toe-to-toe battle that could electrify audiences. Scully believes that Benavidez’s approach would lead to an action-packed fight, appealing to fans who crave excitement. The American fighter’s popularity in the U.S. further complicates matters; a bout with Beterbiev could potentially generate substantial pay-per-view sales, capitalizing on the fervent American boxing market.
Joshua Buatsi, another intriguing option, is described as a “nuclear war” in the ring, given his explosive punching power and willingness to trade blows. Buatsi, with his own impressive record, promises to deliver a showdown worth watching. Scully highlights that these fights wouldn’t require Beterbiev to move up to cruiserweight, where he admits he is unfamiliar with the competitors. This acceptance of the light heavyweight landscape opens the door to several high-stakes matchups without the necessity of moving up in weight, which could compromise Beterbiev’s performance and legacy.
Yet, amid discussions of fresh opponents, the possibility of a rematch with Bivol lingers. Following a closely contested battle that ended in a majority decision victory for Beterbiev, a rematch appears to be on the horizon. Scully notes that public sentiment may favor a second bout, driven by the intrigue of whether Bivol can adjust his approach and improve upon his previous efforts. The fight showcased Beterbiev’s ability to ramp up his aggression late in the match, asserting dominance despite a cautious start.
However, while a rematch might satisfy some fans eager for closure, it’s essential to consider whether the boxing community is truly enthusiastic about watching Bivol and Beterbiev square off again. A rematch would undeniably be less explosive than potential fights with Benavidez or Buatsi. Many observers and fans are eager for excitement, and the grim reality is that Bivol’s style, focused on out-pointing opponents rather than engaging in a trade of blows, may not align with public desires for entertainment.
The determination of Beterbiev’s next opponent rests in the hands of his promoter, His Excellency Turki Alalshikh. His choices will greatly influence not only Beterbiev’s career trajectory but also the overall interest in the light heavyweight division. Should Turki nod toward Benavidez or Buatsi, it would signal a commitment to not only maintain the dynamism within the division but also assure that fans are served captivating contests that will draw viewership and investment in the sport.
Conversely, if a rematch with Bivol is prioritized, it could stagnate interest in Beterbiev’s reign. The boxing world is ever-evolving, and the fight landscape can change rapidly with shifts in public interest and fighter performance. As such, Alalshikh’s decision could either bolster Beterbiev’s legacy or lead him into a bout that might be seen as a misstep regarding engaging with the audience.
As Beterbiev stands on the cusp of his next significant fight, the potential matchups with Benavidez or Buatsi signal a promising direction for his career. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful for exciting battles that highlight the intense competitiveness of the light heavyweight division. Each option brings with it the allure of a thrilling encounter, and as Beterbiev continues to establish his legacy, the focus now shifts to which path he will ultimately take. With such compelling choices ahead, the boxing world eagerly awaits the announcement of Beterbiev’s next opponent.