According to Sovetsky Sport, citing journalist Keith Idek, the International Boxing Federation has ordered Artur Beterbiev to defend his world title against a mandatory challenger. If the plan moves forward, the opponent would be German contender Michael Eifert. The report frames the move within the IBF rules, which require a top challenger to face the reigning champion in a timely defense. These developments place Eifert in line for a high-stakes clash should the bout be scheduled and approved by the sanctioning body.
The IBF’s order followed a move from Dmitry Bivol’s camp, which had filed for a rematch in pursuit of the title of absolute world champion after losing to Beterbiev. The timing of the request and the federation’s response underscored the strategic drama surrounding the light heavyweight crown as both fighters consider the paths that could lead to the sport’s most coveted honor in the division.
On October 13, Beterbiev defeated his fellow Russian Dmitry Bivol in a twelve-round showdown to claim the absolute world light heavyweight championship. The judges’ cards read 114 to 114, 115 to 113, and 116 to 112. For Bivol, it was the first professional defeat of his career, a milestone that amplified the significance of Beterbiev’s performance as the night concluded.
Beterbiev’s triumph made him the first undisputed light heavyweight champion since 2003. He left the ring undefeated, extending his professional record to 21 wins. That undefeated run, coupled with the new undisputed status, reshaped the landscape of the division and set the stage for how the IBF’s mandatory order might influence future matchups, including the balance between defending the title and pursuing potential rematches or unifications that captivate boxing fans and analysts alike.
In his career, Eifert has a record of 14 fights with 13 wins, five of those by knockout. The emergence of his name in connection with an IBF-mandated bout signals the kind of challenge that often tests a champion’s readiness and resilience. The coverage also notes Beterbiev’s performances under the Canadian flag, a point that has drawn attention in various political and media circles. Formerly in the State Duma, observers commented on Beterbiev’s showings as he built a notable reputation on the global stage while representing Canada.