Artur Beterbiev Trilogy or David Benavidez? What’s Next for Dmitry Bivol?

The rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol took place on February 22nd, and it saw Beterbiev lose his four world titles. Bivol got revenge against Beterbiev, as he won the Undisputed Light Heavyweight Championship in a very exciting bout. However, the fight was not as decisive as it could’ve been. Similarly to how the first fight resulted in a majority decision for Artur, this rematch ended in a majority decision for Dmitry.

This is why many fans have been calling for a trilogy between the two. They have two of the closest fights in boxing history and are both still top 10 fighters in the world. Beterbiev became the first Undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion in over 20 years, and that itself should be a means for an immediate rematch. There is, however, someone else who has very clearly cemented himself as the top contender at 175.

David Benavidez is the current WBA Regular and WBC Interim Light Heavyweight Champion and has certainly earned his right to challenge for a world title in the division. The 30-0 former WBC World Super Middleweight Champion decided to move up to light heavyweight in 2024, as Canelo Alvarez continued to avoid a fight with him. He is now 2-0 at 175 and is coming off a huge victory over David Morrell. Benavidez has been considered the most avoided man in boxing recently, and that could continue if he isn’t next in line for a title shot.

Benavidez has cemented himself as the rightful number-one contender, though the Beterbiev trilogy simply makes more sense at this point. In his post-fight interview, Bivol stated that he would be taking some time off. This opens up the possibility for a potential fight between Beterbiev and Benavidez, with the winner getting the next shot at the Undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion. Whichever direction Turki Alalshikh decides to go, fans will be given an intriguing and highly entertaining bout.