Key Detail Agreed for Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol

Originally posted on Big Fight Weekend | By Ricky Carroll | Last updated 1/25/24

Since Artur Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs) destroyed Callum Smith on January 13, the rumours regarding a proposed fight against Dmitry Bivol (22-0, 11 KOs) have increased, with Bob Arum recently speaking on the possibility, with him mentioning he would speak to Turki Alalshikh about getting it agreed. He also mentioned it will happen approximately three months after Ramadan, meaning this monster bout will happen in mid-July at the earliest. It appears Alalshikh would like a June 1 date, which according to Dan Rafael via his Substack, is not an issue for both fighters.

Date Agreed for Beterbiev vs. Bivol

Dan Rafael Reveals Beterbiev vs. Bivol Latest

Rafael has revealed via his substack that sources have told him the light heavyweight unification fight between Beterbiev and Bivol is being planned for June 1 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This fight would produce the first-ever four-belt undisputed champion at 175 pounds, assuming all four organizations agree to sanction the fight.

As mentioned already and on Rafael‘s Substack, Beterbiev will be observing Ramadan from March 10 to April 9, and then he will need three months to recover and complete a full training camp. However, Rafael mentions via his sources that because June 1 is important to Alalshikh- Beterbiev has agreed to fight on that date. Bivol has never had an issue with the date, and his manager, Vadim Kornilov, recently told Fight Freaks Unite that his fighter is ready to fight in April.

Alalshikh Wants the Fight

Alalshikh spoke openly in an interview with Matchroom Boxing about his desire to make the Beterbiev vs. Bivol fight: “We need to see Artur-Bivol.” He continued: “I want to see the result (winner) of Artur and Bivol play against (Jai) Opetaia.” Ade then clarified, and the Chairman of General Authority for Entertainment confirmed: “Yes, this is what I hope to have.“

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