The winning bid was $1.1 million. The Russian, in addition to the World Boxing Council belt, also holds the IBF title. The tender was originally expected to take place on September 17, but the boxers' promoters asked for more time to finalize the agreement, which ultimately fell through.
In March, Beterbiev returned to the ring after a year and a half break, defeating Adam Deines. Browne returned to the ring in April also after a long break and defeated Denis Grachev on points.