Bivol and Beterbiev OFFICIALLY CHOOSE RUSSIA for the Historic Third Fight

The world of boxing is on the edge of its seat as two of the most dominant light heavyweight champions of this era, Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev, prepare to conclude their legendary rivalry in a highly anticipated trilogy fight. What makes this third meeting even more special is the location. Both fighters have expressed their desire to bring the trilogy home—to Russia, where their boxing journeys began. And with the influential Turki Alalshikh giving his blessing, it seems that dream is closer to becoming reality.

A Rivalry Forged in Russian Roots

Long before they were world champions, Bivol and Beterbiev were teammates, compatriots, and rivals on the Russian national boxing team. Their careers have followed different paths, but they share a common background of hard work, discipline, and triumph in Russia’s fierce amateur boxing scene.

Despite their success on the world stage, both fighters have rarely had the chance to perform at home in front of the fans who nurtured their rise. Now, this trilogy fight is set to become more than just a battle for supremacy—it’s a homecoming, a celebration of Russian boxing’s finest talents.

Turki Alalshikh’s Influence: Bringing Boxing to New Heights

Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh, head of the General Entertainment Authority, has been instrumental in reshaping global boxing over the past few years. From staging massive fights in Riyadh to bringing together rival promoters, Alalshikh has been a unifying force in the sport.

His support of Bivol vs. Beterbiev 3 in Russia is a major endorsement of the fighters’ wishes. While much of the boxing spotlight has recently focused on Saudi Arabia, this decision acknowledges the importance of giving back to the fighters’ roots and expanding boxing’s reach beyond the Middle East and the U.S.

Sources close to the negotiations say Alalshikh views this fight as a “global spectacle with local meaning”—a clash of titans on Russian soil, with worldwide attention.

The Trilogy So Far: A Tale of Power and Precision

The rivalry between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev has captivated boxing fans with its blend of contrasting styles:

• Bivol, the slick technician, known for his footwork, timing, and defensive brilliance.

• Beterbiev, the wrecking machine, boasting a perfect knockout record prior to his first encounter with Bivol.

Their first meeting was a chess match, with Bivol outpointing Beterbiev in a tactical masterclass that handed Beterbiev his first career defeat. The rematch was an all-out war, with Beterbiev adjusting his game plan and narrowly edging a decision win, evening the series at 1-1.

Now, the third fight looms as the ultimate decider, with both fighters eager to prove who truly rules the light heavyweight division.

A Historic Russian Showdown: The Perfect Setting

For years, Russia has produced some of the world’s most feared boxers, but rarely has it hosted a fight of this magnitude. Bringing Bivol vs. Beterbiev III to Russia would not only be a homecoming but also a landmark event for the country’s sporting history.

Venues such as the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow or the Gazprom Arena in Saint Petersburg have been floated as potential hosts. Either could accommodate tens of thousands of fans and create an electric atmosphere worthy of a fight of this caliber.

The symbolism of these two fighters returning home at the peak of their powers cannot be overstated. For Russian boxing fans, it’s the culmination of years of anticipation.

What’s at Stake in the Trilogy Fight?

Beyond national pride, this fight carries enormous sporting significance:

• Undisputed Light Heavyweight Championship: With multiple belts already split between the two fighters, this fight would likely unify the division, crowning a single, undisputed champion.

• Pound-for-Pound Supremacy: Both Bivol and Beterbiev are widely regarded as top 10 pound-for-pound fighters. The trilogy winner could rise even higher in those rankings.

• Legacy: This fight will define the careers of both men. Winning a trilogy against such a formidable rival elevates a boxer into the pantheon of all-time greats.

The Fighters Speak: Both Men Want Russia

In separate interviews, both Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev have expressed their desire to bring the trilogy to Russia.

Bivol, typically reserved, said, “Russia is where I became the fighter I am today. To fight Artur here, in front of my people, would be something I’ve dreamed of.”

Beterbiev, known for his intensity, echoed the sentiment: “I’ve fought all over the world, but my heart is in Russia. This is where I was born, where I learned to fight. I want this fight to be for them.”

The shared desire to stage the trilogy at home reflects the mutual respect between these two warriors—rivals in the ring but united in their roots.

When Will It Happen?

While the desire to fight in Russia is clear, the date of the bout has yet to be confirmed. Factors that could influence the timing include:

• Recovery from injuries. Beterbiev recently fought through a rib injury in his last bout, and Bivol is also nursing minor wear-and-tear.

• Venue availability and weather considerations, especially if an open-air stadium is selected.

• Coordination with global broadcast schedules and boxing’s packed fight calendar.

Early speculation suggests the fight could take place in late 2025 or early 2026, depending on negotiations.

Turki Alalshikh’s Role in Global Boxing Diplomacy

Alalshikh’s support of the Russian venue is consistent with his mission to globalize boxing, giving fighters opportunities to perform in meaningful locations, not just the sport’s traditional capitals.

His recent involvement in making Fury vs. Usyk and Joshua vs. Wilder possible demonstrates his ability to unite rival promoters and secure massive fight purses. Bringing Bivol and Beterbiev back to Russia could be another legacy-defining achievement in his growing influence over the boxing world.

Potential Obstacles: Can It Really Happen?

Despite the enthusiasm, there are challenges:

• Geopolitical tensions may make international travel and broadcast deals more complicated.

• Security and logistics for such a high-profile event in Russia could require extraordinary coordination.

• Some Western broadcasters and sponsors may hesitate to engage with an event in Russia, depending on global political dynamics.

However, boxing has always transcended politics. If the fighters, promoters, and governing bodies can find common ground, this trilogy could become one of the defining sporting moments of the decade.

The Fans’ Perspective: A Dream Fight Finally at Home

Russian boxing fans have been dreaming of this moment for years. Both Bivol and Beterbiev are national heroes, and a trilogy fight on home soil would be a massive celebration of Russian sporting excellence.

Globally, fans recognize this as one of the most important fights in boxing today—two elite, undefeated champions (in terms of their overall rivalry score) settling their business in the ring.

With both men nearing the twilight of their careers, the trilogy fight represents their last, best chance to cement their legacies.

Final Thoughts: A Fight That Defines an Era

If and when Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev III happens in Russia, it will be far more than a boxing match. It will be a culmination of personal journeys, national pride, and athletic greatness.

For two fighters who once wore the same flag on their backs and now face each other for supremacy, this is the defining battle of their careers.

And for the boxing world, it’s a rare treat: a trilogy fight between two elite champions, staged not for money alone but for legacy, history, and home.