The highly anticipated boxing match between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol takes place on October 12, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight, scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT, will be streamed on ESPN+ in the U.S. and DAZN internationally.

Artur Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs) enters the fight with a perfect knockout ratio, holding the WBC, IBF, and WBO titles. Known for his relentless power and aggression, the 39-year-old Russian boxer has built his reputation by defeating top opponents like Oleksandr Gvozdyk and Joe Smith Jr. Despite his age, Beterbiev continues to be one of the most feared punchers in boxing, recently securing a TKO victory over Callum Smith in January 2024.

Dmitry Bivol (23-0, 12 KOs) brings a contrasting style to the fight. The WBA (Super) champion relies on technical precision, quick movement, and high-volume punching. The 33-year-old Kyrgyzstani-Russian fighter rose to prominence with a signature win over Canelo Alvarez in May 2022. Bivol’s unbeaten record and 12 title defenses make him a formidable opponent with elite boxing IQ and stamina.

This clash is significant not only for the unification of all four major light-heavyweight titles but also as a meeting of two vastly different styles—Beterbiev’s knockout power versus Bivol’s technical finesse. Fans are eager to see if Beterbiev’s power will prevail or if Bivol’s skill will reign supreme in what promises to be a thrilling matchup at the top of the division.

Artur Beterbiev’s Strategy to Defeat Dmitry Bivol

Pressure and Close Range Fighting:
Beterbiev thrives in close-range exchanges. His best path to victory is to cut off the ring and force Bivol into exchanges inside the pocket, where his power becomes most effective. Beterbiev’s relentless aggression could overwhelm Bivol, who prefers to maintain distance​.

Body Attack to Slow Bivol Down:
Bivol is known for his excellent footwork and mobility. To neutralize this advantage, Beterbiev should focus on attacking the body early, draining Bivol’s stamina and slowing his movement in the later rounds​.

Limit Bivol’s Combinations:
Bivol excels at throwing fast, accurate combinations. Beterbiev can disrupt these combinations by applying constant pressure, leaving Bivol less time to set his shots and forcing him into uncomfortable positions​.

Increase Intensity in Later Rounds:
Although Beterbiev is 39 years old, his power carries through to the later rounds. He should aim to break down Bivol’s defense over time and capitalize on any fatigue as the fight progresses​.

Dmitry Bivol’s Strategy to Defeat Artur Beterbiev

Utilize Superior Footwork and Movement:
Bivol’s mobility will be essential to keeping Beterbiev at bay. He should focus on circling the ring, using lateral movement to prevent Beterbiev from setting his feet for powerful punches​.

Stick to the Jab:
A stiff and consistent jab can disrupt Beterbiev’s rhythm. By controlling the distance with his jab, Bivol can prevent Beterbiev from closing the gap and forcing close-range exchanges​.

Avoid Prolonged Exchanges:
Bivol should avoid getting drawn into a slugfest with Beterbiev. Instead, he should engage in short bursts, landing quick combinations and moving out of range before Beterbiev can respond​.

Exploit Beterbiev’s Age:
Bivol, being six years younger, may enjoy a stamina advantage. If he can avoid taking too much damage early, he could push the pace in the second half of the fight, potentially wearing Beterbiev down in the later rounds​​.

This bout is a fascinating clash of styles: Beterbiev’s devastating power against Bivol’s technical prowess. Both fighters will need to stay disciplined and execute their strategies flawlessly to emerge victorious.

Artur Beterbiev Vs Dmitry Bivol Prediction

The upcoming fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol is difficult to predict, as both fighters are undefeated and bring distinct styles to the table. Here are potential outcomes based on their strengths and weaknesses:

Prediction 1: Beterbiev by KO/TKO

Beterbiev’s 100% knockout ratio is a strong indicator of his fight-ending power. If he can close the distance, apply constant pressure, and land heavy shots, especially to the body, he has a great chance of breaking Bivol down over the rounds. Even though Bivol has a solid defense, he has never faced a puncher as relentless as Beterbiev​.​

Keys to This Outcome:

• Effective pressure from Beterbiev
• Bodywork to slow Bivol’s movement
• A mid-to-late round stoppage due to accumulated damage

Prediction 2: Bivol by Decision

Bivol is known for his exceptional footwork, speed, and technical precision. If he can stick to his jab, stay on the outside, and avoid engaging in close exchanges, Bivol can outpoint Beterbiev over 12 rounds. His ability to control the tempo and avoid getting drawn into a firefight could allow him to secure a unanimous or split decision win​.

Keys to This Outcome:

• Maintain distance and use lateral movement
• Sharp combinations without lingering in range
• Win rounds consistently on the scorecards

Conclusion and Edge

While both outcomes are plausible, many analysts lean slightly towards Bivol due to his younger age, stamina advantage, and superior boxing skills. However, Beterbiev’s power is a constant threat, making an upset possible at any point in the fight. This fight could come down to whether Bivol can execute his game plan perfectly or if Beterbiev can drag him into deep waters and impose his will​.

Check out the result of the fight