Dmitry Bivol, the WBA light heavyweight champion, is slated for a return to the ring in April. The update came from the boxer’s trainer, Gennady Mashyanov, who outlined the plan during a recent interview. The champ has his eyes set on unifying the division and solidifying his status among the sport’s elite. While his target remains the undisputed king of the 175-pound class, the schedule ahead includes a high-profile test in London before any potential cross-division clashes take shape.
Mashyanov explained that a unification showdown with Artur Beterbiev, who holds the IBF, WBC and WBO belts, is in the long‑term plans but would not come until after a scheduled defense and a short hiatus for the opponent. In the near term, Bivol is poised to collide with British challenger Anthony Yarde in late January, a fight that is expected to clear the path for the next phase of his campaign. After that contest, a reprieve for Beterbiev would open the door for the ultimate unification discussion to resume toward year‑end. The trainer stressed that Bivol does not intend to sit idly waiting for the right moment to strike and will stay active to maximize his championship run.
According to Mashyanov, a potential rematch with Mexican star Saul Alvarez could materialize later in the year, with September floated as a viable window if negotiations reach a favorable conclusion. The dynamic around Canelo Alvarez, who has long been a central figure in the 168 and 175‑pound landscapes, keeps options flexible as both fighters weigh the best path back toward a second meeting. The plan remains fluid, yet the emphasis is on timely showdowns that will sustain Bivol’s momentum and propel him into the heart of the division’s discussions.
In the April timeframe, several names are being considered as credible challengers for Bivol’s title defense. Possible contenders include Joshua Buatsi and Callum Smith, both of whom carry significant profiles and substantial experience at the top levels. Mashyanov indicated that these matchups would be evaluated with a focus on delivering a clean, high‑quality title fight that would satisfy fans and elevate the sport’s profile in major markets. He emphasized that any April engagement would hinge on tonight’s preparation, the health of the team, and the boxing calendar as it unfolds. The sense from the camp is that Bivol will be tested by fighters who rank highly on the merit lists, ensuring a bout that can sustain interest across networks and among global boxing audiences.
Dmitry Bivol arrives at this stage with an unblemished record, having compiled 21 victories in 21 outings, including ten knockouts. His ascent has drawn notices from analysts and fans alike, and at the close of 2022 the WBA publicly recognized him as one of the sport’s standout performers. The undefeated champion has built a reputation for technical elegance, disciplined defense, and the ability to impose a planned, tactical game plan against high-caliber opponents. The upcoming schedule is viewed as a chance to further cement his standing among the era’s leading light heavyweights while continuing to showcase the skills that have defined his tenure as a reigning champion.
The broader narrative around Bivol around this stage is one of momentum and strategic positioning. The discussions around potential unifications, rematches, and high‑profile tests reflect the ongoing chess game that defines modern boxing at the top level. For fans and pundits alike, the sequence of events over the coming months will be closely watched, with April’s fight serving as a critical heartbeat in a campaign aimed at adding additional belts to Bivol’s record and sustaining his role as a central figure in the division. The story is not simply about a single bout, but about how a careful balance of speed, power, and ring IQ can drive a fighter toward the pinnacle of the sport while maintaining a vibrant schedule that keeps fans engaged across the globe.