In a surprising shift, former world champion Tim Bradley has changed his prediction for the highly anticipated showdown between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. The former light welterweight champion, known for his insightful analysis and deep understanding of the sport, has now thrown his support behind Bivol, admitting that he initially thought Beterbiev would come out on top. However, after further reflection and analysis, Bradley has revised his stance and is now backing Bivol to win the fight.
Bradley, who has closely followed the light heavyweight division, has been vocal about the strength and potential of both fighters. Artur Beterbiev, the unified champion with a perfect knockout record, has long been considered one of the most dangerous and powerful men in the sport. His relentless aggression and ability to end fights with a single punch have made him a favorite for many experts, including Bradley, who once believed Beterbiev’s power would be too much for Bivol to handle.
However, in recent comments, Bradley has acknowledged the growing evidence of Bivol’s exceptional skill set and his ability to control the pace of a fight. “I always thought Beterbiev would take it, based on his power and aggressive style, but after watching Bivol’s last few performances, I’ve changed my mind,” Bradley stated. “Bivol’s boxing IQ, his ability to move, and his composure in the ring are unmatched. He’s shown time and again that he can adapt to different styles, and I believe he can outbox Beterbiev.”
Bradley’s shift in opinion comes after watching Bivol’s impressive victory over Canelo Álvarez in 2022, where the Russian fighter showcased his technical brilliance by neutralizing the Mexican star’s aggressive attack. Bivol’s flawless display of defensive boxing and strategic counterpunching left many questioning if anyone in the division could pose a threat to his dominance.
On the other hand, Beterbiev’s knockout power remains a significant factor, and his ability to walk through opponents has made him a formidable force. But Bradley, who is known for his analytical approach, believes Bivol’s ring craft will be the key to overcoming Beterbiev’s power. “Beterbiev is a beast, no doubt, but Bivol’s defense and his ability to control distance will give him the edge,” Bradley concluded.
The fight between Bivol and Beterbiev, set for later this year, is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling matchups in boxing. With both men boasting undefeated records and impressive resumes, the winner will not only solidify their claim as the best light heavyweight in the world but also further cement their legacy in boxing history.
Bradley’s change of heart has added even more intrigue to the fight, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be a tactical battle between two of the sport’s most talented fighters. Will Bivol’s technical prowess be enough to overcome Beterbiev’s raw power, or will the knockout artist prove that brute force is the key to victory? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this is a fight that fans won’t want to miss.
