Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol 2: From Teammates to Rivals in the ultimate Light Heavyweight showdown

A 12-year journey comes full circle this Saturday, February 22, 2025, when Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol step into the ring for their highly anticipated rematch. What started as camaraderie in the Russian national boxing team has evolved into one of the most intense rivalries in light heavyweight history.

Their first encounter in October 2024 saw Beterbiev emerge victorious, but the battle was far from decisive in Bivol’s eyes. Now, as the two best 175-pound fighters on the planet prepare to meet again, the stakes have never been higher.

From Teammates to Unstoppable Forces in Boxing

In 2012, a young Dmitry Bivol joined the Russian national boxing team, where he trained alongside Artur Beterbiev, who was already an accomplished amateur boxer. At the time, Beterbiev was a decorated champion, having won two European Championships, two World Championships, and representing Russia in two Olympic Games.

Meanwhile, Bivol was an up-and-coming talent, eager to learn and grow. The two shared a bond built on mutual respect, but little did they know, their paths would eventually collide at the highest level of professional boxing.

After transitioning to the professional ranks, both fighters built legendary resumes that set them apart from the rest of the division. Beterbiev became known for his devastating knockout power, while Bivol perfected his elusive movement and technical skills. Their long-awaited first clash took place in October 2024, when Beterbiev claimed victory after a grueling 12-round war.

Beterbiev and Bivol’s Dominance in Professional Boxing

Fast forward 12 years, and both fighters have become dominant forces in the light heavyweight division. Beterbiev has established himself as a knockout machine, boasting a perfect record of 20 wins by KO, striking fear into his opponents. On the other hand, Bivol has taken the Soviet-style boxing movement to new heights, outclassing his rivals with impeccable footwork, precision, and unmatched ring IQ.

• Artur Beterbiev: The Relentless Knockout Machine

Beterbiev is known for his unmatched power, with 20 knockouts in 20 victories, making him one of the hardest hitters in the sport. His relentless forward movement forces opponents into defensive positions, making it difficult for them to mount an effective offense. With a history of dominating top-level competition, including elite fighters like Joe Smith Jr. and Callum Johnson, he has cemented himself as a force to be reckoned with.

• Dmitry Bivol: The Technical Genius

Bivol’s superior footwork allows him to control the distance and dictate the pace of his fights. His defensive mastery enables him to avoid unnecessary damage while counterattacking with precision. His impressive stamina and endurance ensure that he remains sharp throughout all 12 rounds, outlasting and outmaneuvering opponents in long battles.

A Rivalry That Defines an Era

While Beterbiev and Bivol were once teammates, their contrasting styles and approaches to the sport make their fights a perfect clash of power vs. precision.

In their first bout, Beterbiev’s pressure and knockout ability allowed him to break through Bivol’s defense and secure the win. However, Bivol made adjustments in the later rounds, and many believe that with a slightly different strategy, he could turn the tables in the rematch.

Now, with a second chance at light heavyweight supremacy, Bivol will attempt to use his superior technical skills to neutralize Beterbiev’s relentless pressure. The question remains: Can Bivol avoid the knockout power for all 12 rounds, or will Beterbiev land the decisive shot once again?

What’s at stake in the rematch?

For Beterbiev, a win would solidify his status as one of the greatest light heavyweight champions of all time. At 40 years old, he knows this could be one of his last chances to defend his legacy.

For Bivol, this is a shot at redemption. A victory would erase the bitterness of his first defeat and establish him as the true undisputed champion.

This rematch is about more than just titles—it’s about legacy, revenge, and proving who the best 175-pound fighter in the world truly is.

A Stacked Undercard in Riyadh

The rematch between Beterbiev and Bivol headlines a massive event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, featuring seven championship fights.

Full Fight Card:

• Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol: Light Heavyweight Title (WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO)
• Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker: IBF Heavyweight Title
• Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield: WBC Lightweight 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: WBC Interim Heavyweight Title
• Joshua Buatsi vs. Callum Smith: WBO Interim Light Heavyweight Title

With so many high-profile fights, boxing fans are in for an unforgettable night of action.

Fight Night Details: How to Watch Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2

• Location: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
• Fight Card Start Time: 11:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM PT
• Main Event Ring Walks: 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT

Fans worldwide can catch the live pay-per-view event through major boxing broadcasters and streaming platforms.

Who Will Prevail in This Epic Rematch?

The Beterbiev vs. Bivol rematch is more than just a fight—it’s the conclusion of a 12-year journey from teammates to rivals.

Will Beterbiev’s power once again prove too much to handle? Or will Bivol’s technical brilliance earn him the victory he has long sought?

One thing is certain: On February 22, 2025, the world will finally know who reigns supreme in the light heavyweight division.