A highly anticipated rematch in the light heavyweight division is set for February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as Artur Beterbiev takes on Dmitry Bivol for the undisputed title at 175 pounds. This bout follows their thrilling fight four months earlier, which saw Beterbiev emerge victorious. The match went the distance, with Bivol managing to hold his ground against the knockout artist, who boasts an impressive record of 20 knockouts in his 20 fights—something no other professional fighter has matched.
Bivol is eager to avenge his only professional loss, stating, “I have to do it not only for the last rounds; I have to do it for the whole fight… I have to be better, I have to win each round without a doubt.” This sentiment reflects the intensity and preparation both fighters are bringing into this rematch.
The event is being billed as the “Fight Card of the Century” by Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh and still remains star-studded despite some last-minute changes due to illness. Heavyweight Joseph Parker will face Martin Bakole after Daniel Dubois withdrew, and WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson is set to clash with Josh Padley, another late substitution. Additionally, a noteworthy fight on the undercard will feature junior middleweights Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Israil Madrimov, both top contenders looking to make their mark.
The action will kick off at 10:30 a.m. ET on DAZN PPV, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be an electrifying card.
This matchup not only underscores the competitive nature of boxing but also highlights the resilience of fighters who adapt to challenges, ensuring a thrilling experience for fans. As the fight approaches, anticipation builds for a showdown that could redefine the rankings in the light heavyweight division.