Dmitry Bivol has revealed his most desirable options at 175lbs while, at the same time, expressing his interest in a potential jump up to cruiserweight.
The unified world champion has not fought since his majority decision victory over Artur Beterbiev in February 2025, back when he exacted his revenge to become the undisputed light-heavyweight king.
Soon after, a long process of undergoing and recovering from back surgery meant that he was forced to vacate his WBC title, rather than defend it against his then-mandatory challenger David Benavidez.
As a result, Benavidez is now the full WBC champion while Bivol, who must now take care of his IBF mandatory obligation, is expected to return to action against Michael Eifert later this year.
But while Eifert represents a solid opponent, especially after more than a year out the ring, Bivol equally acknowledges that his most lucrative opportunities are likely to emerge towards the end of 2026.
One such matchup could be an undisputed showdown with Benavidez, who is first set to collide with unified world cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez in May.
Besides that, the 35-year-old has told Fight Hub TV that a trilogy fight with Beterbiev, or even a rematch with Canelo Alvarez – who he outpointed in 2022 – could both present themselves as possible options.
Perhaps more surprisingly, though, Bivol has also hinted at a potential move up in weight, seemingly targeting cruiserweight world champions Jai Opetaia, Noel Mikaelian and the winner of Ramirez vs Benavidez.
“Why not this year? [Benavidez is] an option for us. Benavidez, Beterbiev, you mentioned Canelo.
“Also, in my head, I would like to move up to get the chance to fight for another belt, in another weight class. For my soul, it would be better to move up [to cruiserweight].”
While speaking with media members, Bivol added that his ordered matchup with Eifert should soon go to a purse bid hearing.
