BOXING

Beterbiev Bivol rematch could be a blockbuster

The early stages of the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol sees a stunning undercard that could be the best in recent years.

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In the world of boxing, where rivalries and legacies collide under the bright lights, the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol could be the spark that ignites a blockbuster event. Scheduled for February 22, this showdown in Riyadh promises not only to revisit their dramatic first meeting but also to anchor a fight card packed with world-class talent.

The rematch comes on the heels of their fiercely contested battle in October, which left fans and pundits divided. Beterbiev walked away with a majority decision, but the fight’s intensity fueled debates over whether Bivol had done enough to claim victory. Many saw the bout as razor-close; some scored it a draw, underscoring the need for a second chapter.

Beterbiev, the unified light-heavyweight champion, brings his trademark power and precision to the table, while Bivol counters with unparalleled technical skill and discipline. Their contrasting styles make this rematch as unpredictable as the first, with the added stakes of settling the score for undisputed supremacy at 175 pounds.

While Beterbiev-Bivol is the centerpiece, the undercard aims to be just as spectacular. Reports suggest that the event could feature up to five world title bouts, creating a lineup that rivals some of the greatest boxing events in recent memory.

One potential co-feature pits Daniel Dubois against Joseph Parker for the IBF heavyweight title. Dubois, fresh off his dramatic victory over Anthony Joshua, initially sought a rematch with AJ, but those plans fell apart when Joshua pivoted toward other opportunities. Enter Parker, the former WBO heavyweight champion, who has resurrected his career with an impressive string of victories, including wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang. With Dubois' raw power and Parker’s experience, this fight promises fireworks.

Another potential highlight is a super-welterweight clash between Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Vergil Ortiz, two undefeated stars whose paths have been intertwined for years. Both fighters have dominated their divisions, and a showdown at 154 pounds would not only settle debates about their standing but also solidify the winner as a force to be reckoned with across weight classes.

Shakur Stevenson, one of the sport’s most skilled tacticians, is set to defend his WBC lightweight title against Floyd Schofield. Stevenson had been eyeing a bout with William Zepeda, but an injury sidelined Zepeda, leading to Schofield stepping up. While Schofield’s recent performance against Rene Giron left some questioning his readiness, his confidence and ambition make this an intriguing matchup.

Rounding out the proposed card is a middleweight clash between WBC champion Carlos Adames and the rising British talent Hamzah Sheeraz. Adames has been a force in the division, while Sheeraz is eager to prove he belongs on the world stage. This fight offers a mix of raw talent and explosive potential, further enhancing the night’s appeal.

While the proposed matchups have set the boxing world buzzing, it’s important to note that none of these fights are officially signed yet. Negotiations are ongoing, and the final lineup is still taking shape. However, even if only a handful of these bouts materialize, the event would remain a monumental spectacle.

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