Artur Beterbiev Rules Out Oleksandr Usyk Fight, Focuses on Bivol Rematch
Artur Beterbiev, the reigning undisputed light heavyweight champion, has firmly shut down any prospect of facing Oleksandr Usyk in the future. The 38-year-old knockout artist, known for his relentless power and precision, admitted that a fight against Usyk is no longer realistic.
“At this point, Usyk is just too big and too strong,” Beterbiev acknowledged in a recent interview. The Ukrainian heavyweight, who holds the WBA, IBF, and WBO titles, has cemented his status as one of boxing’s elite fighters in the heavyweight division. Despite fans speculating about a potential showdown, Beterbiev has made it clear that he will remain focused on his current weight class and immediate challenges.
Rematch with Dmitry Bivol Set for February 22
The immediate task at hand for Beterbiev is his highly anticipated rematch with Dmitry Bivol. Scheduled for February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the bout is poised to be one of the most significant events in boxing in 2025.
Their first encounter was a closely contested battle, with Beterbiev narrowly emerging victorious to unify the light heavyweight titles. Bivol, known for his technical prowess and adaptability in the ring, has since made it clear he’s determined to avenge his loss.
“I expect a more action-packed fight this time,” Beterbiev said, hinting that both fighters might adopt a more aggressive approach. However, he also expressed concerns about the quick turnaround between fights.
“I would have preferred more time to give my body a rest,” Beterbiev admitted. The champion has maintained an intense schedule over the past year, and the grueling preparation required for a rematch with Bivol leaves little room for recovery.
High Stakes in Saudi Arabia
The rematch in Riyadh has captured the attention of the global boxing community. With both fighters holding undefeated records in their respective careers, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For Bivol, the bout represents a chance at redemption and the opportunity to reclaim the light heavyweight crown. For Beterbiev, it’s about cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Saudi Arabia has increasingly become a hub for high-profile boxing matches, offering lucrative purses and state-of-the-art venues. This fight will undoubtedly add to the country’s growing reputation as a premier destination for world-class boxing events.
Beterbiev’s Legacy in the Spotlight
As Beterbiev moves toward the latter stages of his career, every fight takes on added significance. Known for his unparalleled 100% knockout rate, he has become one of the most feared fighters in the sport. A victory over Bivol in the rematch would further solidify his status as the king of the light heavyweight division and one of the most dominant champions in recent history.
Despite ruling out a fight with Usyk, Beterbiev remains focused on defending his titles and continuing to take on the toughest challenges within his division. His dedication to his craft and willingness to face elite opponents underscore why he is widely regarded as one of boxing’s pound-for-pound best.
With the rematch against Bivol on the horizon, fans can expect an intense and electrifying battle between two of the sport’s finest competitors. February 22 promises to be a night to remember for boxing enthusiasts around the globe.
