Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev put on another elite show in their second fight, with Bivol winning by majority decision and becoming the undisputed champion. The rematch happened just four months after their first encounter.
The 12-round bout proved technical and thrilling. Bivol outperformed Beterbiev, winning nine of the 12 rounds. He showed great resilience against Beterbiev's powerful punches and managed to outland his opponent in most rounds.
Their first fight in October ended Beterbiev's impressive 20-fight knockout streak. Beterbiev won that bout by majority decision, though many felt Bivol had done enough to win.
Both fighters showed great respect for each other. There wasn't any unnecessary hype or bad blood in the build-up to the fight. This mutual respect continued after the final bell.
Bivol approached Beterbiev after the fight and said:
"Artur, I respect you so much because when I was young and I came to the national team I was looking up to you, how you were training and you were the number one. I really respect you and I want to shake your hand and say thank you for this fight."
Beterbiev responded:
"Thank you for the fight also. This is sport. This is what happens. You are a good fighter also."
The two shook hands. But then Beterbiev added, in a normal tone:
"I will not shake hands now, because we will have a third fight."
Bivol replied, "Okay, no problem." He later explained this exchange at the post-fight press conference to clear up any confusion about a supposedly 'refused' handshake.
A third fight between these two seems likely. The quality of their matches and the lack of comparable competition in the light-heavyweight division make it an attractive option. Fans will certainly look forward to another showdown between these two elite fighters.
