Bivol’s disdain for Benavidez only prioritizes a rematch with Beterbiev

Dmitry Bivol has made it clear that despite rumors of a potential showdown with David Benavidez, his primary focus is a rematch with Artur Beterbiev. After their tense first encounter, which many, including Bivol and promoter Turki Alalshikh, believed he should have won, the Russian light heavyweight is unwilling to move forward until he settles the score with Beterbiev.

Bivol’s Personal Priority: A Rematch with Beterbiev

For Bivol, a rematch with Artur Beterbiev is not just about titles but also about personal redemption. The Russian boxer feels that he was unfairly robbed in their initial meeting, a sentiment shared by many fans who eagerly await their second bout. While the potential for a fight with Benavidez remains on the table, Bivol insists that settling his unfinished business with Beterbiev is his number one priority.

In an interview, Bivol stated, “Yes, I could fight anyone in our weight class, of course, why not. But first, I want the rematch. Honestly, right now, I’m not thinking about anyone else. My mind is focused on something else.”

This statement reveals just how strongly Bivol feels about the injustice he experienced during their first fight. It’s clear that for him, this isn’t just about collecting more victories but about correcting what he views as a wrong.

A Dangerous Rematch: The ‘Last Crescendo’

On February 22, 2025, Beterbiev and Bivol will face off again in what is being dubbed “The Last Crescendo” to determine the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Although the public consensus seemed to favor Bivol as the true winner of their first fight, official judges’ scorecards painted a different picture, leaving Bivol with an itch that only a rematch can scratch.

Bivol’s plan for the upcoming fight is clear: He intends to fix the mistakes from the first encounter and ensure that he doesn’t leave his fate in the hands of judges again. In the first battle, while Bivol controlled most of the fight, he slowed down as the rounds progressed, particularly in the final stages, where Beterbiev’s aggression began to take its toll. In fact, Beterbiev outlanded Bivol significantly in the last six rounds.

Improving Stamina and Strategy: Bivol’s Plan for the Rematch

Learning from his previous encounter, Bivol has focused on improving his stamina to withstand the onslaught from Beterbiev. His aggressive style demands tremendous endurance, and Bivol believes that with the right adjustments, the outcome of their second fight could be vastly different.

He acknowledges that Beterbiev’s power and relentless attack were key factors in their first meeting, but Bivol is determined to be better prepared next time. “With the right adjustments, things will be different in the second fight,” he said, showing confidence in his ability to correct the issues that affected him during their first bout.

At this stage, Bivol is thrilled by the opportunity to face Beterbiev once again, and he credits Alalshikh for quickly arranging the rematch. According to Bivol, just one day after their first fight, Alalshikh brought both fighters together and asked if they were ready to go again.

Bivol’s Clear Focus: No Disrespect to Benavidez, Just Unfinished Business

While Bivol’s commitment to facing Beterbiev first is clear, some may interpret his reluctance to entertain a fight with Benavidez as disrespectful. The American fighter, a rising star in the light heavyweight division, has made his intentions clear, but Bivol’s eyes are solely on the rematch with Beterbiev. He isn’t dismissing Benavidez entirely, but for now, the focus remains on righting the wrongs of his first fight with the Russian knockout artist.

The rematch with Beterbiev is not just a professional decision for Bivol, but a deeply personal one. This could be the defining fight of his career, and Bivol is determined to make sure that the judges’ scorecards align with what he believes is the reality of their competition.