Dmitry Bivol and David Benavidez are getting closer to a big fight this summer. The two champions might face off in what could be Bivol's first defense of his undisputed light-heavyweight crown.
Bivol grabbed all the belts at 175 pounds when he beat Artur Beterbiev by majority decision in February. That win evened the score between them at one apiece, leading many to think a trilogy bout was next.
But it looks like Bivol's going in a different direction. He's set to take on the undefeated Benavidez, who folks call a "monster" in the ring. Benavidez earned his shot at Bivol by beating David Morrell in February, making him the mandatory challenger for the WBC belt at 175 pounds.
Julius Julianis broke the news on Twitter, saying:
"Attention attention. PBC and Matchroom are very close to finalising an agreement for Bivol and David Benavidez to face each other this summer."
This matchup's got boxing fans excited. Bivol and Benavidez have shared the ring before in sparring sessions that have become infamous in boxing circles.
But there's a twist in the tale. Saudi boxing chief Turki Al-Alshikh threw a curveball into the mix. He announced he's not interested in the fight anymore, saying:
"I am no longer interested in Bivol-Benavidez and I will not bid on it. I think Bivol knows who has delivered for him and who hasn't. My advice: Don't be late because every day something changes."
Despite Al-Alshikh's sudden change of heart, it looks like the fight will still happen. Bivol and Benavidez seem set to clash, giving fans a chance to see two of the best in the division go at it.
