Dmitry Bivol Knows That Artur Beterbiev ‘Is Really Dangerous’

Dmitry Bivol (23-0, 12 KOs) might be a bit worried at the prospect of fighting Artur Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs).

In a few hours, the WBA light heavyweight titleholder will test his mettle against the division’s unified champion at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight is set to be a historic affair as it will also warrant the division its first undisputed title since Roy Jones Jr. in 1999. While both fighters are coming into the fight with an undefeated streak, Bivol acknowledged his upcoming opponent’s skillset, especially his notoriety as an iron-fisted knockout maestro. Talking to Sky Sports, he recently opened up about his history with Beterbiev and his vision for the upcoming fight.

“We knew each other, but we didn’t talk. We did some sparring, but it wasn’t real sparring,” he said. And then, shifting his attention to the impending showdown, he added, “I had targets then. I have only in my mind my next opponent. It doesn’t mean I don’t care about the rest of them. But now I have one opponent, and that’s it. At that time, too, I had many guys there.”

Bivol further mentioned that, to him, Beterbiev is just “an opponent with the belts” rather than a fighter with a “100 percent KO” ratio and that would be bringing in everything in his arsenal to secure them. Moreover, he stated that with a victory, he would be able to prove to himself that he’s the best.

“Always when I’m going to the ring I’m trying to think that this is the most dangerous opponent in my career, and he is really like this. He’s really dangerous, and it makes me more excited, to be honest. Your level, your enemies, the level of your challenges shows your level also. We will see,” he said while talking about Beterbiev. “October 12, it will be my show.”

“I’m Being Biased”

Mike Tyson, “The Baddest Man on the Planet,” was recently asked about the potential outcome of the Beterbiev vs. Bivol fight, and it certainly looks like the champ has a favorite.

Tyson was recently at LF*GO press conference ahead of his fight against Jake Paul. In conversation, he was asked about the upcoming light heavyweight showdown. “Woo. I just think Beterbiev’s gonna do well. I’m a big fan of his,” he responded without skipping a beat. “I’m being biased. It’s not fair to ask me that question.”

Joshua Ben Joseph

Joshua Ben Joseph is a Boxing writer renowned for his unparalleled coverage of live events and insightful interviews with prominent athletes in the world of combat sports. With a career spanning over several years, he has authored more than 800 articles. As an experienced editorial cartoonist and investigative journalist, Joshua has a keen eye for detail and a passion for delivering quality content. Aside from his writing, Joshua is an avid powerlifter and solo traveler, embodying the same spirit of determination and exploration that he brings to his work. With a deep love for the sport of boxing that dates back to childhood, he is committed to delivering the highest quality content and helping to build a more transparent and credible industry.

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