STUNNING 2012 picture of Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev emerge ahead of historic rematch at Riyadh Season
Undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev is set to clash against Dmitry Bivol in a rematch this weekend.
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Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol met each other ahead of their rematch (Image via The Independent)
In the current light heavyweight boxing division, 40-year-old Artur Beterbiev is the undisputed champion. Most recently, he defeated 34-year-old Dmitry Bivol, unifying their championship titles in a controversial fight. Both Beterbiev and Bivol have activated their rematch clauses, and are set to face each other again this weekend.
Following their recent encounter, Artur Beterbiev ended Dmitry Bivol’s unbeaten record in professional boxing. However, Bivol and his team were dissatisfied with the fight’s result, claiming they were robbed. As a result, both light heavyweight boxers are determined to secure a decisive victory over one another. However, ahead of that, a buzzing picture of Beterbiev and Bivol’s youth went viral among the netizens.
Interestingly, despite being rivals, both Bivol and Beterbiev represent the same country, Russia. In the realm of combat sports, Russian competitors have always been notable standouts. Recently, a photo of both Bivol and Beterbiev together in 2012 during a national team outing has resurfaced. This may eventually lead to speculation about a strong friendship between them. However, that is not the case.
Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol back in 2012 on the Russian national team together. pic.twitter.com/ClDzuB7L9F
— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) February 17, 2025
Beterbiev and Bivol share a lively rivalry, which has led to them being asked about their relationship on several occasions. The 34-year-old Bivol noted that, despite being on the same national team, he viewed Beterbiev simply as a senior and nothing more. However, Bivol did express his admiration for the 40-year-old Beterbiev, recognizing him as a leader within the national team.
Former rival of Artur Beterbiev picks Dmitry Bivol to win the rematch
Since his debut in professional boxing, Artur Beterbiev has remained unbeaten in the light heavyweight division. Throughout his career, he has faced and defeated several formidable opponents. Beterbiev boasts an impressive record of 20 knockouts in 21 wins, with the only exception being a decision victory against Dmitry Bivol.
Following their intense first fight, many are expressing skepticism about Beterbiev’s chances of winning again. Recently, Callum Smith, one of the undisputed champion’s former rivals, provided an insightful analysis of how the upcoming Riyadh Season headliner fight might unfold. Smith notably pointed out one significant drawback of Beterbiev that could impact the outcome and favor Bivol.
Callum Smith via Pro Boxing Fans (Check from 3:40)
Beterbiev, we keep saying it, but he can’t keep just going on. That last fight was the toughest of his career. It’ll be interesting to see how much that has taken out of him. Is he finally gonna look his age? I don’t know… it’s going to be another really close fight and tough to pick but if I have to side with one I’d side with Bivol this time.
Unlike Callum Smith, several other notable figures in the boxing community have a different viewpoint. Interestingly, Beterbiev is known for his brute strength, while Bivol possesses a technically perfect fighting style. That being said, it will be intriguing to see if the 34-year-old boxer can finally get his revenge on the fighter he once admired as a leader.
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Nilaav Gogoi
(652 Articles Published)