Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol will face off in a historic light-heavyweight clash on October 12 in Riyadh. The fight will crown the first undisputed champion in the division since Roy Jones Jr.
Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season have put their backing behind the event, bringing together two fighters who have dominated the 175-pound weight class. Beterbiev, known for his relentless style, stands as the only world champion with a perfect knockout record. Bivol, on the other hand, is a slick operator who wastes no movement, builds off a stellar jab, and controls the pace of his fights.
Canelo Alvarez, who previously lost to Bivol, shared his thoughts on the matchup during an appearance on the Pound For Pound podcast.
"I think if Bivol has the condition and good game-plan to go there, in and out, and do all these things, I think he wins. But, if not, if he goes a little bit in the corner or on the ropes, it's gonna be hard for him because Beterbiev is a very hard fighter."
Alvarez also mentioned he might return to 175 pounds in the future, but only for a rematch with Bivol.
"Yeah it's possible one day. It's the only fight I make one more time at 175 is the rematch with Bivol. It's the only fight that will happen."
The event promises a stacked undercard. Shakur Stevenson will take on Joe Cordina, while Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke will meet in a British Heavyweight Title rematch. Skye Nicolson and Raven Chapman will make history in Riyadh Season's first female fight. Chris Eubank Jr is also set to return to action on the card.