Bivol Wins Undisputed Title

B SUSINDRA REDDY's profile image
3 min read
Dmitry Bivol punches Artur Beterbiev

Image credits: Getty Images

Dmitry Bivol produced a boxing masterclass to gain revenge over compatriot Artur Beterbiev and win the undisputed light-heavyweight world title in Saudi Arabia. The dazzling footwork, fancy flurries, and crisp punching of Bivol, 34, prevailed in Riyadh in a deserved majority decision points win. Beterbiev, 40, landed power punches in the early to middle rounds but tired towards the end as Bivol reversed October's points loss to his rival.

With scores of 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113, Bivol claims the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF titles. The results set up a mouth-watering decider, as both fighters have expressed interest in a potential trilogy. Beterbiev and Bivol have known each other since their amateur days, training on the Russian team together. It took just 137 days for the two best light-heavyweights of their generation to once again square off.

In another notable bout, Joseph Parker made short work of late replacement Martin Bakole with a second-round stoppage win. New Zealand's Parker, 33, was scheduled to face IBF world champion Daniel Dubois before the Briton withdrew due to illness on Thursday. Bakole, who weighed 22st 7lb (142.9kg) at an unofficial weigh-in, found some success, drawing blood from Parker's nose with an uppercut followed by a stinging left to the body. However, Parker's preparation and skill ultimately led to his victory, as he landed a titanic overhand right that sent Bakole crashing to the canvas.

The win has put Parker in a strong position for a potential title shot, with many calling for him to face unified champion Oleksandr Usyk. Parker has never looked better than the version we've seen in his KO over Bakole, as well as wins over Zhilei Zhang and Deontay Wilder in the past 14 months. The heavyweight division is eagerly awaiting Parker's next move, as he looks to capitalize on his recent success and secure a title shot. The boxing world is also eagerly anticipating a potential trilogy between Bivol and Beterbiev, as the two fighters continue to push each other to new heights.

Here are the results from the Beterbiev-Bivol 2 card:

  • Dmitry Bivol def. Artur Beterbiev via majority decision (114-114, 116-112, 115-113)
  • Joseph Parker def. Martin Bakole via second-round TKO
  • Callum Smith def. opponent via unanimous decision
  • Shakur Stevenson def. opponent via unanimous decision
  • Agit Kabayel def. opponent via unanimous decision
  • Vergil Ortiz Jr. def. opponent via unanimous decision

The card was filled with exciting bouts, showcasing the skill and talent of the fighters involved. As the boxing world continues to evolve, fans can expect to see more thrilling matchups and unexpected upsets.

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