LIVE COVERAGE: Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol 2—Round-by-round updates

Pre-Fight Overview

The highly anticipated rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol is set for February 22, 2025, at Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This bout has captivated the boxing world, following their controversial first encounter in October 2024, where Beterbiev secured a majority decision victory. Now, both fighters are determined to settle the score in this blockbuster showdown.

What’s at stake?

• Beterbiev’s Titles: The undefeated IBF, WBC, and WBO light heavyweight champion puts his belts on the line.
• Bivol’s Redemption: The former WBA champion seeks revenge after suffering his first career loss.
• Undisputed Status: The winner of this fight could move one step closer to becoming the undisputed light heavyweight champion.

With both fighters at their peak, this fight isn’t just about titles—it’s about legacy and proving who is the true king of the 175-pound division.

Round-by-Round Fight Analysis

Round 1: Bivol Takes Control Early

As the opening bell rings, both fighters cautiously approach the center of the ring. Bivol, renowned for his technical precision and footwork, immediately establishes his rhythm with a series of sharp jabs. His left jab finds its mark repeatedly, helping him maintain distance and dictate the tempo.

Meanwhile, Beterbiev, known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, looks to close the gap. He attempts to go to the body early, throwing a couple of hard hooks to the ribs. However, Bivol’s lateral movement makes him an elusive target, forcing Beterbiev to reset his offense multiple times.

Bivol’s one-two combination lands cleanly, drawing cheers from the crowd. Beterbiev presses forward but struggles to land anything significant as Bivol slips and counters effectively.

End of Round 1: Bivol’s speed and accuracy dominate, giving him an early lead.

Round 2: Beterbiev Ramps Up the Pressure

Moving into the second round, Bivol continues his disciplined approach, using quick footwork to maintain distance. However, Beterbiev begins making key adjustments.

The Russian-Canadian champion starts cutting off the ring, preventing Bivol from circling away as easily. He also targets the body more aggressively, landing a heavy left hook to Bivol’s ribs. The shot forces Bivol to momentarily slow down, allowing Beterbiev to press forward.

Bivol responds with crisp counters, including a stiff straight right to Beterbiev’s chin, but the champion absorbs it and keeps advancing. In the final 30 seconds, Beterbiev explodes with a powerful right hook, snapping Bivol’s head back. It’s the most significant punch of the fight so far.

End of Round 2: Beterbiev closes the distance and lands heavy shots, shifting momentum.

Round 3: A Tactical Chess Match

The third round sees a shift in strategy from both fighters. Bivol realizes he can’t rely solely on movement, so he starts engaging more in mid-range exchanges. He lands a quick double jab-right cross combo, but Beterbiev takes the shots well.

Beterbiev remains patient, using subtle head movements to avoid damage while setting up his signature power punches. Midway through the round, he lands a thudding left hook to Bivol’s liver, forcing the challenger to retreat momentarily.

But Bivol isn’t backing down. As Beterbiev tries to capitalize, Bivol times an uppercut perfectly, momentarily stunning the champion. The crowd roars as both men trade punches in the final 10 seconds, with neither giving an inch.

End of Round 3: Evenly matched—Bivol’s accuracy vs. Beterbiev’s raw power.

Round 4: Beterbiev’s Power Begins to Take Over

The fourth round opens at a furious pace. Beterbiev senses an opportunity and immediately pressures Bivol against the ropes. He launches a relentless assault, landing a series of hooks to the head and body.

Bivol, showing his championship mentality, doesn’t panic. He clinches smartly, slowing the pace down. Once back in the center of the ring, he re-establishes his jab, looking to create space again.

However, Beterbiev refuses to let up. With 45 seconds left in the round, he lands a monstrous overhand right, staggering Bivol for the first time. Sensing his opponent is hurt, Beterbiev follows up with a flurry of punches, but Bivol survives until the bell.

End of Round 4: Beterbiev’s relentless pressure and power shots turn the tide in his favor.

Fight Analysis After Four Rounds

After four intense rounds, the fight remains incredibly competitive.

• Bivol’s speed and technical skills have given him early success, allowing him to land clean punches and avoid major damage.
• Beterbiev’s power and relentless pressure are beginning to take effect, wearing Bivol down.
• The momentum is shifting—while Bivol was in control early, Beterbiev’s pressure is now dictating the fight’s pace.

This is shaping up to be an all-time classic.

Additional Event Information

The “Last Crescendo” boxing event isn’t just about Beterbiev vs. Bivol. The undercard features other blockbuster matchups:

• Josh Padley vs. Shakur Stevenson for the WBC lightweight title (after Floyd Schofield withdrew due to injury).
• Martin Bakole vs. Joseph Parker in a high-stakes heavyweight clash.

The entire event is being broadcast live on DAZN Pay-Per-View, with coverage starting at 4 PM GMT.

Final Thoughts

The rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol is delivering on all expectations. With both fighters showcasing their elite skills and contrasting styles, this battle is far from over.

What to Watch for in the Next Rounds:

• Can Bivol regain control with his movement and jab?
• Will Beterbiev’s power ultimately overwhelm Bivol?
• Could a knockout be on the horizon?

Stay tuned for live updates as this epic battle unfolds!