Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol are set to face off once again in a highly anticipated rematch for the undisputed light heavyweight world championship. The first match between these two modern greats ended in a majority decision victory for Beterbiev last October, after a thrilling 12-round battle. This rematch, dubbed “Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2,” is the main event of the most stacked card of Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia.
The fight week leading up to this event has been tumultuous, with Daniel Dubois withdrawing from his IBF heavyweight title defense against Joseph Parker. Parker, who earned his shot through impressive victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, now faces a formidable test against Martin Bakole. Another exciting matchup on the card features Chinese giant Zhang against the undefeated Agit Kabayel, who made history by becoming the first man to stop Zhang with a sixth-round TKO.
American stars Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Shakur Stevenson are also in action, competing for world titles in the super welterweight and lightweight divisions, respectively. Israil Madrimov, fresh off a narrow loss to Terence Crawford, faces off against Ortiz, while Josh Padley steps in to fight Stevenson after Floyd Schofield withdrew due to illness.
In a long-awaited matchup, Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi will finally settle their domestic grudge at light heavyweight. Smith, a former super middleweight world champion, emerged victorious with a unanimous decision win in what was considered a fight-of-the-year contender. Up-and-coming talent Hamzah Sheeraz will also be vying for his first world title as he challenges WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames.
The Beterbiev vs. Bivol ‘Last Crescendo’ card is being closely followed by The Sporting News, providing live updates and results for each fight. With a stacked lineup of world-class matchups, this event promises to deliver plenty of excitement and drama for fans.
### Callum Smith vs. Joshua Buatsi: A Domestic Showdown
The long-awaited matchup between Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi was a highlight of the ‘Last Crescendo’ card. Smith, a seasoned veteran in the sport, faced off against the undefeated Buatsi in a highly anticipated battle for the WBO interim light heavyweight title. The fight lived up to expectations, with both fighters displaying skill, heart, and determination throughout the 12-round contest.
From the opening bell, Smith and Buatsi engaged in a back-and-forth battle, with each fighter landing significant shots and showcasing their technical prowess. Smith, known for his power and experience, utilized his jab and body shots effectively to control the pace of the fight. Buatsi, the younger and less experienced fighter, showed resilience and heart as he weathered Smith’s offensive onslaught.
As the fight progressed, both fighters had their moments of success, thrilling the audience with exchanges of power punches and slick combinations. Smith’s experience and ring generalship were evident as he strategically outboxed Buatsi and countered his opponent’s aggressive attacks. Buatsi, on the other hand, displayed his determination and heart by pushing forward and landing significant shots despite facing adversity.
In the end, Callum Smith emerged victorious with a unanimous decision win, claiming the WBO interim light heavyweight title. While Buatsi suffered his first defeat as a professional, he gained valuable experience and showcased his potential as a rising star in the sport. The fight between Smith and Buatsi was a testament to the skill, heart, and dedication of both fighters, providing fans with a memorable and exciting showdown.
### Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol: A Rematch for the Ages
The main event of the evening, the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol for the undisputed light heavyweight world championship, was a highly anticipated showdown between two elite fighters in the division. Beterbiev, the reigning champion, and Bivol, the challenger seeking redemption, put on a masterful display of skill, heart, and determination in a fight that captivated fans worldwide.
From the opening bell, Beterbiev and Bivol engaged in a high-paced, action-packed battle, with both fighters showcasing their technical prowess and power. Beterbiev’s aggressive style and relentless pressure tested Bivol’s defensive skills, while Bivol’s slick movement and sharp counterpunching kept Beterbiev on his toes. The back-and-forth exchanges between the two fighters had the audience on the edge of their seats, eager to see who would emerge victorious.
As the fight progressed, Beterbiev’s power shots and relentless pressure began to wear down Bivol, who showed tremendous heart and resilience in the face of adversity. Bivol’s slick boxing skills and counterpunching kept him in the fight, but Beterbiev’s relentless attack proved to be too much for the challenger to handle. In the end, Beterbiev secured a hard-fought victory, retaining his title and solidifying his status as one of the top fighters in the light heavyweight division.
The rematch between Beterbiev and Bivol was a true battle of wills, with both fighters leaving everything in the ring in pursuit of victory. The fight showcased the best of what boxing has to offer – skill, heart, determination, and sportsmanship – making it a memorable and thrilling event for fans and spectators alike.
