Dmitry Bivol Expected to Drop World Title as He Sets Sights on Beterbiev

Dmitry Bivol is expected to drop his undisputed light-heavyweight world title as he sets his sights on a trilogy fight against Artur Beterbiev.

What happened?

In a recent interview with FightHype, promoter Eddie Hearn revealed that Bivol wants to face Beterbiev in a third match. This comes after Bivol defeated Michael Eifert in May to defend his three remaining world titles.

Why it matters for Dmitry Bivol

Bivol's decision to relinquish his title could pave the way for a potential fight between Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi for the vacant WBO light-heavyweight world title. Smith was initially expected to face Bivol, but it seems that the Russian has other plans.

What comes next?

Hearn expects Smith to rematch Buatsi in a clash for the vacant title, while Bivol-Beterbiev III could be back on the cards for later this year. The WBA and IBF light-heavyweight marbles will be at stake in the potential rematch.

Bivol's decision to focus on the Beterbiev fight has been met with surprise, with many believing that he would instead face Smith. However, Hearn has confirmed that Bivol wants the Beterbiev rematch, which could happen later this year.

The potential fight between Bivol and Beterbiev has been a long time coming, with the two fighters having a history of rivalry. Bivol defeated Beterbiev in February 2025 to claim the undisputed light-heavyweight crown, but a 15-month period of inactivity saw him forego his WBC world title.

Bivol's return to the ring in May saw him shake off the ring rust by fulfilling his IBF mandatory and defending his three remaining world titles against Eifert in Russia. However, it seems that the Russian has his sights set on a bigger prize-a trilogy fight against Beterbiev.

The potential fight between Bivol and Beterbiev is expected to be a highly anticipated match, with both fighters having a history of rivalry. Bivol's decision to relinquish his title could pave the way for a potential fight between Smith and Buatsi, but it seems that the Russian has other plans.

As a result, Bivol-Beterbiev III could be back on the cards for later this year, with the WBA and IBF light-heavyweight marbles at stake. The potential fight between Bivol and Beterbiev is one to watch, and boxing fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcement of a potential rematch.

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