Unified light-heavyweight world champion Dmitry Bivol is set to turn down a huge opportunity for another major fight, despite massive financial incentive.
Bivol collided with Artur Beterbiev in October 2024 in an instant classic light-heavyweight affair, but he came up short against the Canadian-Russian knockout artist, losing a majority-decision that saw Beterbiev claim the undisputed throne.
Just four months later, Bivol returned the favour and scored a majority-decision win of his own to avenge his solitary career defeat, putting an end to Beterbiev’s undefeated record and claiming the undisputed title for himself.
A third meeting has been mooted ever since, with Beterbiev remaining inactive in the 17 months that have followed, whilst Bivol returned to action with a win over Michael Eifert back in May.
Speaking with The Ring, IBA President Umar Kremlev revealed that Bivol is yet to accept a proposal for a trilogy showdown, in spite of the fact that he has been offered double the purse that he received for his other fights with Beterbiev.
“I’m very disappointed. Everyone is waiting for this fight. I don’t know why Bivol and his team are not accepting the offer, but I will do my best to make this fight happen. We’ve been having discussions with both teams for quite a while. I can confirm that Beterbiev and his team are ready for the fight.
“The offer we made to Bivol for the third fight was considerably bigger than the first two fights. Specifically, he was given two times a bigger offer than in previous fights. Beterbiev will fight for free just to make this fight happen.”
Continuing, Kremlev speculated that Bivol is seeking alternative opportunities but shared his thoughts that 41-year-old Beterbiev deserves the chance to reclaim his old belts, having agreed to an immediate rematch without hesitation after their initial encounter.
“To be honest, we’ve made really good offers in writing but unfortunately, Bivol’s team is still waiting for something. He appears ready for the fight, but his team is thinking.
“As far as I can see, it looks like they are looking for other opportunities and options in the market. I believe firmly that we need to find common ground and we need to make this fight happen. The world is waiting. Beterbiev gave Bivol a rematch and Bivol should do the same. It’s the only appropriate gesture.
“I can assure everyone that we are ready to organise the third fight at the highest level. We can stage the fight for 100,000 fans if it happens in Russia but are also open to bringing it wherever it needs to be. The most important thing is that the fight needs to happen. I’m confident it’s going to be another great fight.”
It is understood that Liverpool’s Callum Smith will likely be Bivol’s next opponent, following surgery on an injured elbow, with that contest expected to delay any Beterbiev trilogy until mid-2027.
