Former undisputed light-heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev is yet to fight since losing the 175lb throne, but the Russian-Canadian has one target in mind ahead of his return.
Beterbiev became the first undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the four-belt era when he claimed a historic majority-decision over perennial rival Dmitry Bivol back in October 2024. In their rematch, just four months later, Bivol scored a majority-decision win of his own to take home all four belts.
Since then, 41-year-old Beterbiev has grown increasingly frustrated at the lack of a third fight, believing that Bivol is trying to age him out and face him when he has declined, particularly after Bivol returned from 15 months of inactivity to instead take on IBF mandatory challenger, Michael Eifert, last month.
In an interview with Inside The Ring, Beterbiev spoke of his own return, maintaining that he would still prefer a trilogy showdown with Bivol, rather than a clash with rising pound-for-pound superstar David Benavidez.
“I respect what David Benavidez has already done in boxing. He’s become a three [division] world champion. I’m not avoiding this kind of fight, with Benavidez or anyone else, but first of all I’m more focused to [fight Bivol again].”
“I really want the rubber match. I think everybody wants it. I feel good. If you want to check if I’m good or not, make this happen and I’ll show you.”
With Benavidez set to remain at cruiserweight and challenge for the WBC world title, the path seems clear for Bivol-Beterbiev III, with Russia understood to be the most likely location for the event.
