Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol are getting ready for a big fight. The two undefeated light heavyweight champions will face off on Saturday, October 12, in Saudi Arabia to decide who's the undisputed champion of the division.
Former WBC light heavyweight champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk thinks Bivol's in for a tough night. Gvozdyk knows what it's like to face Beterbiev. He fought Beterbiev back in 2019 and was stopped in round 10.
Bivol's got an impressive record. He's beaten all comers, including Lyndon Arthur, Gilberto Ramirez, and Craig Richards. In 2022, he even managed to outpoint Canelo Alvarez, becoming only the second man to do so.
But Beterbiev's no slouch either. He's stopped all 20 of his opponents inside the distance and holds multiple world titles. At 40 years old, some might think he's slowing down, but Gvozdyk doesn't see it that way.
"It might be the case but I still think he's a really disciplined fighter and has really taken care of himself well so even at 40 years old he has kept a great condition to fight at the top level."
Speaking to Round Eight Boxing, Gvozdyk gave some advice to Bivol:
"Just don't let him punch you and work your a** hard. Run away, because it's not a good idea to stay near the ropes against him."
When asked if Bivol should try to fight fire with fire, Gvozdyk said:
"I think it's a good option for fans, but not for Bivol."
Gvozdyk thinks Beterbiev will come out on top. He explained:
"I don't believe Bivol will be able to keep Beterbiev away with his jab because this guy is strong and his power neutralises a lot of your good skills. In this case I think it's going to be very hard to keep Beterbiev away, I think he will come close and bring him a lot of trouble, so Beterbiev is my favourite."
The winner of this fight could be in line for some big matches. Names like David Benavidez and Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez are being thrown around as potential future opponents.
With two undefeated champions with different styles going head-to-head, fans are in for a treat on October 12. Will Bivol's speed and technique be enough to keep Beterbiev at bay? Or will Beterbiev's power prove too much? We'll find out soon enough.
