Artur Beterbiev Becomes First Undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion of the Four-Belt Era

The boxing world witnessed history as Artur Beterbiev defeated Dmitry Bivol by majority decision to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion. This highly anticipated bout, held at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, featured two undefeated champions battling for supremacy. Beterbiev, known for his knockout power, secured victory through the judges’ scorecards for the first time in his career, maintaining his perfect record and cementing his legacy in boxing history.

Beterbiev Outlasts Bivol in a Hard-Fought Battle

Both Beterbiev and Bivol entered the ring as undefeated champions, making this fight one of the most exciting matchups in light heavyweight boxing. Beterbiev held the WBC, IBF, and WBO titles, while Bivol carried the WBA and IBO belts, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.

The fight was closely contested, with Bivol displaying his technical skills and defensive mastery while Beterbiev applied his relentless pressure and signature power. The judges’ final scores—114-114, 115-113, and 116-112—awarded Beterbiev the victory. With this win, the 39-year-old became the first undisputed light heavyweight champion of the four-belt era, proving that experience and power are still dominant forces in the sport.

A Rare Decision Win for the Knockout King

Beterbiev is renowned for his aggressive fighting style, having won all 20 of his previous professional bouts by knockout. However, for the first time in his career, he had to settle for a decision victory. Despite this, his dominance was clear as he controlled the later rounds, breaking down Bivol with his powerful combinations and tactical pressure.

Speaking through a translator after the fight, Beterbiev said, “I try to finish every fight. That’s my mentality. I don’t go in there looking for a decision. I want to knock my opponent out. That’s what I train for; that’s what I live for.” While he didn’t secure a stoppage this time, his performance was enough to claim undisputed status and solidify his place among boxing’s elite.

The Road to Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2

With the first fight delivering high drama, fans are already looking forward to the Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 rematch, set for February 22, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This blockbuster event, dubbed “The Last Crescendo,” features an elite lineup of title fights, with Beterbiev putting his undisputed championship on the line against Bivol in another must-watch battle.

The full fight card includes:

• Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol: Undisputed light heavyweight championship
• Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker: IBF heavyweight title
• Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield: WBC light-heavyweight title
• Carlos Adames vs. Hamzah Sheeraz: WBC middleweight title
• Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Israil Madrimov: WBC interim super welterweight title
• Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel: Vacant WBC interim heavyweight title
• Joshua Buatsi vs. Callum Smith: WBO light heavyweight interim title

The Future of the Light Heavyweight Division

With Beterbiev and Bivol set for a rematch, the light heavyweight division remains one of the most exciting in boxing. If Beterbiev can defend his undisputed status, he will further solidify his legacy as one of the greatest light heavyweight champions of all time. However, Bivol is determined to reclaim his world title and prove he belongs at the top.

Boxing fans can expect another thrilling contest when these two warriors meet again. Will Beterbiev’s power and aggression prevail once more, or will Bivol adjust his strategy to reclaim the throne? The world will be watching as history unfolds in Riyadh once again.