Artur Beterbiev Eyes a Weight Class Change After Undisputed Triumph
Mark Ramsey, the coach of Russian boxer Artur Beterbiev, suggested the world champion might explore a different weight division if a title opportunity arises. The remark came in the wake of a fight that showcased Beterbiev’s readiness to pursue peak challenges beyond the current limit. Ramsey stressed that the possibility would depend on the right title option appearing on the horizon, signaling a long view beyond the immediate celebration of unification.
On October 13, Beterbiev defeated Dmitry Bivol to seize the sport’s absolute crown in the light heavyweight division. The 12-round contest ended with scores of 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112, underscoring a closely fought battle that left Bivol with his first professional defeat and cemented Beterbiev’s place among boxing’s elite. The fight brought an end to a chapter that showcased Beterbiev’s blend of power, accuracy, and relentless pressure, while Bivol demonstrated a craftier, more technical approach that nearly denied the champion on the cards.
With that victory, Beterbiev became the first undisputed light heavyweight champion since 2003, and he extended his professional record to 21 straight wins without a loss. The achievement highlighted his complete skill set, combining power, ring IQ, and a relentless pace that have defined his career in the ring. Fans and analysts noted that the feat not only capped a historic unification run but also placed Beterbiev in conversations that include the all-time greats who have dominated the division over decades.
Earlier, on June 2, Bivol posted a dominant win over Malik Zinad at a boxing night in Saudi Arabia. The 33-year-old from Saint Petersburg delivered a decisive stoppage in the sixth round after a sustained flurry of straight punches, prompting the referee to halt the bout. Prior to facing Beterbiev, Bivol had compiled 23 victories in his professional tenure. The performance showed Bivol’s ability to impose pace and precision, completing a path that led to the showdown with Beterbiev for the crown.
In the wake of the October victory, Beterbiev reached out to Bivol, offering respect and acknowledging the formidable challenge that comes with pursuing unification and the pursuit of glory in the sport’s most grueling weight class. The exchange reflected the mutual recognition of two champions who continue to elevate the standard of boxing on the world stage. As the division absorbs the aftershocks of this landmark night, both fighters stand ready for challenges that could redefine successors in the years ahead.