Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol III: The Ultimate Battle for Light Heavyweight Supremacy

The light heavyweight division has seen many legendary rivalries, but none as electrifying as the clash between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. After two unforgettable fights, the two champions are set to meet for the third and final time. This is not just a title fight; it is a battle for legacy, dominance, and undisputed glory.

Their styles are complete opposites, making this matchup even more compelling. Beterbiev is a relentless knockout machine, a fighter who thrives on power and aggression. Bivol, on the other hand, is a master of precision, defense, and ring IQ. The big question heading into this trilogy is clear: Can Beterbiev’s devastating power break through Bivol’s defensive genius, or will Bivol outbox him once again?

As fight night approaches, the anticipation continues to build. Fans and analysts are divided on their predictions, knowing that in a fight of this magnitude, anything can happen. One punch can change history. One mistake can cost everything.

Artur Beterbiev: The Knockout King on a Mission

There is no one in boxing quite like Artur Beterbiev. He is the only active world champion with a 100 percent knockout ratio, a feat that speaks volumes about his raw power and finishing ability. Every opponent he has faced has been stopped inside the distance, making him one of the most feared fighters in the sport.

Beterbiev’s greatest weapon is his ability to cut off the ring and apply suffocating pressure. Once he traps his opponent, he unloads brutal combinations, often ending fights in devastating fashion. His short hooks and uppercuts generate an incredible amount of force, and very few fighters can withstand his power.

But Beterbiev is not just a brawler. His technical skills and amateur pedigree allow him to break down opponents methodically. He understands when to press forward, when to attack, and when to set traps. However, his aggressive style makes him vulnerable to counterpunches, and against an elite tactician like Bivol, that could be a serious risk.

For Beterbiev, this fight is about proving that power and relentless pressure can overcome elite technical skills. He has already defeated Bivol once, though controversy surrounded the finish. Now, he wants to silence all doubts and cement his status as the undisputed light heavyweight king.

Dmitry Bivol: The Master Technician with a Point to Prove

If Beterbiev is the division’s wrecking ball, then Dmitry Bivol is its chess grandmaster. He is not the hardest puncher, but he does not need to be. His jab, movement, and defensive awareness make him one of the most difficult fighters to hit cleanly.

Bivol’s most dominant performance came against Canelo Alvarez, where he completely neutralized one of the sport’s biggest stars. His ability to control distance, dictate the pace, and counter with precision exposed Canelo’s limitations and further solidified Bivol’s place among the pound-for-pound elite.

Against Beterbiev, Bivol must execute a similar strategy. He cannot afford to stand and trade with one of the most dangerous punchers in boxing. Instead, he needs to use his footwork to frustrate Beterbiev, force him to miss, and capitalize on counterpunching opportunities. His jab will be key to disrupting Beterbiev’s rhythm, and his ability to maintain composure under pressure will be tested like never before.

However, Bivol faces a unique challenge. Unlike his past opponents, Beterbiev does not slow down. He keeps coming forward, absorbing shots and breaking fighters down mentally and physically. Can Bivol stay disciplined for twelve rounds, or will he eventually get caught by one of Beterbiev’s fight-ending punches?

For Bivol, this fight is about redemption. He believes his previous loss was unfair, and now he has the opportunity to set the record straight. If he can outbox Beterbiev over twelve rounds, he will not only become the undisputed champion but also solidify his legacy among boxing’s all-time greats.

A Look Back at Their First Two Battles

The first fight between Beterbiev and Bivol ended in a controversial draw. Many believed Bivol had done enough to win, but the judges saw it differently. It was a tactical chess match, with Bivol controlling the early rounds and Beterbiev closing the distance in the later rounds.

Their rematch was far more dramatic. Beterbiev secured a ninth-round knockout, but the finish was disputed. Many claimed that the final punch—a crushing left hook—landed illegally behind Bivol’s head. Bivol’s camp protested the decision, but the result stood.

Now, with both men holding claims to supremacy, this third fight will be the final decider. There will be no controversy, no excuses—just one man standing as the undisputed champion.

Keys to Victory: What Each Fighter Must Do to Win

For Artur Beterbiev, the game plan is clear. He must:

• Apply constant pressure and force Bivol into exchanges.
• Cut off the ring effectively to limit Bivol’s movement.
• Land significant power punches early to wear Bivol down.
• Avoid getting frustrated if Bivol surprises him in the early rounds.

For Dmitry Bivol, success depends on:

• Maintaining distance and controlling the pace with his jab.
• Using footwork to frustrate Beterbiev and make him miss.
• Sticking to his defensive discipline for twelve rounds.
• Capitalizing on counterpunching opportunities when Beterbiev overcommits.

With both fighters undefeated, only one will walk away with their perfect record intact.

When and Where to Watch This Historic Fight

While an official fight date has not been confirmed, reports suggest that the bout is being targeted for late 2025. Madison Square Garden in New York is rumored to be the leading venue choice, setting the stage for a historic battle in one of boxing’s most iconic arenas.

The fight will be available on major streaming platforms like ESPN, DAZN, and Pay-Per-View services worldwide. With such high stakes, this is not just another boxing event—it is a fight that will define an era.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy-Defining Showdown

The trilogy between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol will go down as one of the greatest rivalries in modern boxing history. With everything on the line, this fight will determine the true undisputed light heavyweight champion.

For Beterbiev, it is a chance to prove that raw power and relentless aggression can conquer even the most skilled technicians. For Bivol, it is an opportunity to demonstrate that intelligence, strategy, and discipline can overcome brute force.

One punch can change history. One mistake can decide a career.

As the world eagerly awaits this colossal showdown, one thing is certain: when the final bell rings, only one man will be crowned king of the light heavyweight division.