Dmitri Bivol vs Artur Beterbiev - An Analysis
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On October 12th, the boxing world will witness one of the most anticipated and historically significant fights of modern times: the first undisputed light heavyweight clash in 25 years. Artur Beterbiev will meet Dmitry Bivol with the WBC, WBA, WBO, IBF, and Ring Magazine titles on the line.
The chance to fight for undisputed status is the pinnacle of the sport. The last man to hold that crown at light heavyweight was none other than Roy Jones Jr. Now, these two titans—Bivol and Beterbiev—will battle to become his successor.
So, who wins? Here are some key factors to consider:
Beterbiev’s 100% KO ratio:
Artur Beterbiev is a fearsome puncher with a perfect knockout record—he has stopped all 20 of his opponents. He is currently the only world champion in boxing with a 100% KO ratio. Upon closer inspection, his record looks even more ominous: 12 of those 20 opponents were stopped within five rounds, with an average fight length of just 4.9 rounds. This terrifying statistic gives Beterbiev a clear edge in finishing ability.
Beterbiev’s age and recent knee surgery:
However, Beterbiev is now 39 years old, making him the second oldest world champion in boxing (behind only Erislandy Lara, who holds a title at 41). Over the years, Beterbiev has dealt with multiple injuries, the most recent of which caused this fight to be postponed as he underwent knee surgery. Although he insists he’s now 100%, questions about his endurance and mobility linger. He fought last in January, so he hasn’t been particularly active, and while he hasn’t shown any definitive signs of slowing down in the ring, age and injuries could affect his performance—especially against a technician like Bivol, who thrives on movement and ring control.
Bivol: Prime and in-form:
On the other side of the ring is the undefeated Dmitry Bivol (23-0). At 32 years old, Bivol is arguably in his physical prime. He’s renowned for his technical mastery and defensive skills, a stark contrast to Beterbiev’s all-out knockout style. Bivol has been more active than his opponent, with his most recent win coming in June—a TKO over Malik Zinad. In that fight, Bivol showed a rare display of vicious combinations, perhaps sending a message to Beterbiev and the world. However, it’s unlikely Bivol will adopt such an aggressive approach against Beterbiev, as that would likely be a dangerous strategy.
Bivol’s Ring IQ:
Bivol’s ability to control distance and dictate the pace of a fight could allow him to outbox Beterbiev for large portions of the match. His superior movement and ring IQ will be key if he hopes to avoid Beterbiev’s destructive power.
Bivol hurt?:
There is some cause for concern for Bivol. Beterbiev loves to throw his overhand right—a punch that briefly stunned Bivol in his fight against Joe Smith Jr., before Bivol ultimately won via UD. If Beterbiev lands that same shot, it could spell the beginning of the end. Bivol will need to be fully prepared to deal with Beterbiev’s clubbing punches, especially around his guard.
This fight is shaping up to be a classic power vs. skill matchup. If Beterbiev can close the distance and land his big shots, it seems likely his power will overwhelm anyone—even Bivol. Conversely, Bivol’s best path to victory lies in using his superior ring IQ to control the tempo, pace, and distance, potentially leading him to a decision win. While nothing is certain, and both men possess the tools to triumph, Bivol currently holds the slight edge in the betting odds.
The chance to fight for undisputed status is the pinnacle of the sport. The last man to hold that crown at light heavyweight was none other than Roy Jones Jr. Now, these two titans—Bivol and Beterbiev—will battle to become his successor.
So, who wins? Here are some key factors to consider:
Beterbiev’s 100% KO ratio:
Artur Beterbiev is a fearsome puncher with a perfect knockout record—he has stopped all 20 of his opponents. He is currently the only world champion in boxing with a 100% KO ratio. Upon closer inspection, his record looks even more ominous: 12 of those 20 opponents were stopped within five rounds, with an average fight length of just 4.9 rounds. This terrifying statistic gives Beterbiev a clear edge in finishing ability.
Beterbiev’s age and recent knee surgery:
However, Beterbiev is now 39 years old, making him the second oldest world champion in boxing (behind only Erislandy Lara, who holds a title at 41). Over the years, Beterbiev has dealt with multiple injuries, the most recent of which caused this fight to be postponed as he underwent knee surgery. Although he insists he’s now 100%, questions about his endurance and mobility linger. He fought last in January, so he hasn’t been particularly active, and while he hasn’t shown any definitive signs of slowing down in the ring, age and injuries could affect his performance—especially against a technician like Bivol, who thrives on movement and ring control.
Bivol: Prime and in-form:
On the other side of the ring is the undefeated Dmitry Bivol (23-0). At 32 years old, Bivol is arguably in his physical prime. He’s renowned for his technical mastery and defensive skills, a stark contrast to Beterbiev’s all-out knockout style. Bivol has been more active than his opponent, with his most recent win coming in June—a TKO over Malik Zinad. In that fight, Bivol showed a rare display of vicious combinations, perhaps sending a message to Beterbiev and the world. However, it’s unlikely Bivol will adopt such an aggressive approach against Beterbiev, as that would likely be a dangerous strategy.
Bivol’s Ring IQ:
Bivol’s ability to control distance and dictate the pace of a fight could allow him to outbox Beterbiev for large portions of the match. His superior movement and ring IQ will be key if he hopes to avoid Beterbiev’s destructive power.
Bivol hurt?:
There is some cause for concern for Bivol. Beterbiev loves to throw his overhand right—a punch that briefly stunned Bivol in his fight against Joe Smith Jr., before Bivol ultimately won via UD. If Beterbiev lands that same shot, it could spell the beginning of the end. Bivol will need to be fully prepared to deal with Beterbiev’s clubbing punches, especially around his guard.
This fight is shaping up to be a classic power vs. skill matchup. If Beterbiev can close the distance and land his big shots, it seems likely his power will overwhelm anyone—even Bivol. Conversely, Bivol’s best path to victory lies in using his superior ring IQ to control the tempo, pace, and distance, potentially leading him to a decision win. While nothing is certain, and both men possess the tools to triumph, Bivol currently holds the slight edge in the betting odds.