Dmitry Bivol Wins Undisputed Light Heavyweight Championship Against Artur Beterbiev

Image credits: Richard Pelham/Getty Images

Dmitry Bivol has become the undisputed light heavyweight champion of the world after defeating Artur Beterbiev in a highly anticipated rematch. The fight, which took place at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, saw Bivol win by majority decision, with scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 114-114. This victory marks a significant turnaround for Bivol, who lost to Beterbiev in their previous encounter just four months ago.

The rematch was a closely contested and intense fight, with both fighters giving it their all. Bivol made adjustments to his strategy, standing flat-footed in front of Beterbiev and using his jab to prevent Beterbiev from landing his powerful shots. Beterbiev, however, continued to push forward, forcing Bivol to fight at a hectic pace. Despite Beterbiev's relentless pressure, Bivol was able to land several combinations and punches that pierced through Beterbiev's guard. As the fight wore on, Bivol's strategy paid off, and he was able to take control of the fight, landing several clean shots and winning over the judges.

The fight was part of a larger card that included several other notable matches. Joseph Parker defeated Martin Bakole by second-round TKO to claim the WBO heavyweight interim title, while Shakur Stevenson beat Josh Padley by ninth-round TKO to retain the WBC lightweight title. The event was marked by intense competition and thrilling matchups, with several fighters putting on impressive performances. The results of the matches were as follows:

• Dmitry Bivol def. Artur Beterbiev by majority decision (116-112, 115-113, 114-114)
• Joseph Parker def. Martin Bakole by second-round TKO
• Shakur Stevenson def. Josh Padley by ninth-round TKO

The victory for Bivol is a significant one, as it marks his first major title win and cements his position as one of the top light heavyweight fighters in the world. Beterbiev, on the other hand, will look to regroup and come back stronger after suffering his first professional loss. The rematch between the two fighters was highly anticipated, and the outcome did not disappoint, with both fighters putting on a thrilling performance.

The event was also marked by some controversy, with Beterbiev refusing to shake Bivol's hand after the fight. Despite this, the two fighters showed respect for each other's skills and abilities, with Bivol praising Beterbiev's toughness and Beterbiev congratulating Bivol on his victory. The fight was a testament to the skill and determination of both fighters, and it will be interesting to see how they both perform in their future matches.