Artur Beterbiev, the unified light heavyweight champion holding the WBC, IBF, and WBO titles, challenged the approach taken by Dmitry Bivol’s team regarding how they arrange face offs between fighters. He suggested that the other camp is making excuses and said there is no need for him to chase them, asserting that his own team will pursue the right path. Beterbiev emphasized that with three belts on the line, consolidation is the ultimate aim and that the current arrangement feels like idle gossip rather than a meaningful championship strategy. He made clear that his focus is on unification rather than entertaining distractions that he views as unnecessary noise within the sport.
In late January, Beterbiev pressed his advantage by defeating Anthony Yarde. After taking a knockdown in the eighth round, Yarde elected to throw in the towel, signaling a technical knockout for Beterbiev, marking the Russian star’s 19th victory by stoppage in his professional career. The result reinforced Beterbiev’s reputation as a finisher inside the ring and underscored his consistency at the highest level of competition.
Earlier in the year, Dmitry Bivol had captured the WBA light heavyweight title by defeating Gilberto Ramirez in a 12-round bout that ended with a unanimous decision in Bivol’s favor. The win extended Bivol’s title defenses, highlighting his sustained success in the division and adding another chapter to the ongoing rivalry narratives that surround the most elite light heavies. The event provided further context for the ongoing discussions about who is best in an era renowned for depth and talent at 175 pounds.
Beyond the ring, Beterbiev has reflected on his long relationship with boxing since the London Olympic Games. The journey, dating back to the 2012 Olympics, shaped his career and fueled his drive to compete at the highest level. His perspective has evolved over time, with a clear focus on meaningful battles that define a champion rather than chasing every potential show. The conversation around who truly leads the division continues to evolve as both fighters pursue further opportunities for unification and legacy, always under the gaze of fans and pundits who seek the most decisive matchups and the cleanest paths to supremacy. This ongoing dialogue reflects the sport’s enduring appeal and the athletes’ dedication to mastering their craft for the long haul. [citation: Championship]