Dumsha Wijesinghe JadeTimes Staff
W.G.S.D.Wijesinghe is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Sports News
In a highly anticipated showdown in Saudi Arabia, Artur Beterbiev secured a majority decision victory over Dmitry Bivol to become the undisputed light-heavyweight world champion. The bout, living up to its billing, saw both fighters showcase their strengths in a closely contested battle that highlighted the pinnacle of boxing skills and determination.
A Tactical Battle: Bivol Starts Strong
Dmitry Bivol, 33, made an impressive start, utilizing his superior movement and sharp combinations to win the early rounds. His calculated approach, marked by controlled aggression and precise jabs, kept Beterbiev at bay. Bivol’s tactical superiority in the first half of the fight gave him the upper hand, as he appeared to outmaneuver the relentless pressure of his opponent.
However, Beterbiev, a two time Olympian known for his power, remained undeterred. As the fight progressed, he applied constant pressure, gradually wearing down Bivol. In the fifth round, a vicious body shot signaled a turning point as Beterbiev began to gain momentum.
Beterbiev's Relentless Pressure Pays Off
Despite Bivol’s resilience and flurries of punches to hold off Beterbiev’s advances, the 39 year old Russian refused to relent. The seventh round saw both fighters exchange powerful blows, with Bivol stunning Beterbiev momentarily, only for Beterbiev to retaliate seconds later with ferocious combinations of his own.
As the fight entered the championship rounds, Beterbiev’s corner advised him that he needed a knockdown to secure victory. Although he was unable to maintain his perfect knockout streak, Beterbiev dominated the final rounds, winning the 10th, 11th, and 12th on all three judges scorecards.
The fight concluded with scores of 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112 in favor of Beterbiev, making him the first undisputed light heavyweight champion since 2002 and the first to achieve the feat in the four belt era.
Controversy and Calls for a Rematch
While Beterbiev's historic achievement cements his legacy among the light heavyweight greats, the close nature of the fight has sparked controversy, with many calling for a rematch. Bivol’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed his frustration with the decision, stating, "I don't want to disrespect Beterbiev, but that judge should never work again."
The majority decision has left many within the boxing community eager to see these two unbeaten champions face off again, as the razor thin margins in the fight left much to be debated. Regardless, Beterbiev's victory in the Middle East has undoubtedly solidified his status at the top of the division.
Fabio Wardley Retains British Heavyweight Title with First-Round KO
In the co main event, British heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley delivered a stunning first-round knockout of Frazer Clarke in their rematch. Wardley, 29, unleashed a powerful right hand that floored Clarke early in the round, marking his 17th stoppage victory in 18 professional fights.
Clarke, a 2020 Olympic bronze medallist, admirably rose to his feet but was in no condition to continue, prompting the referee to stop the contest. Wardley's decisive victory marks his ascension beyond domestic competition, as he now looks toward world-level challenges in the heavyweight division.
With emerging talents like Wardley and IBF champion Daniel Dubois, the future of British heavyweight boxing looks exceptionally bright.
