Beterbiev-Bivol Fight: Round-by-Round Coverage From Riyadh

Admin

3 min read

Post on Feb 23, 2025

4.5

Share

Beterbiev Stops Bivol in the 11th: A Dominant Display in Riyadh

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Dmitry Bivol's undefeated reign came to a stunning end on Saturday night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as Artur Beterbiev delivered a devastating knockout victory in the 11th round of their highly anticipated light heavyweight unification bout. The fight, a clash of undefeated champions, lived up to its billing, delivering a thrilling spectacle before a roaring crowd at the Diriyah Arena. However, it was Beterbiev's relentless pressure and devastating power that ultimately proved too much for the previously seemingly impenetrable Bivol.

Beterbiev, known for his aggressive style and brutal knockout power, immediately established his dominance. From the opening bell, he relentlessly pressured Bivol, forcing him to constantly retreat and defend. Bivol, famed for his precision and defensive prowess, utilized his superior speed and footwork to evade many of Beterbiev's power shots, but the sheer volume of punches landed by the champion was relentless. The early rounds were a tactical chess match, with Bivol landing sharp counterpunches while absorbing considerable punishment. Beterbiev consistently landed the heavier blows, swelling Bivol’s left eye noticeably by the fourth round.

The middle rounds saw Beterbiev continue his assault. He targeted Bivol’s body effectively, slowing the challenger down and visibly tiring him. Bivol showed remarkable resilience, attempting to use his jab to keep Beterbiev at bay, but Beterbiev's relentless pressure made it a difficult task. While Bivol landed some telling shots, particularly to the head, they rarely staggered the powerful Russian. The fight maintained a high intensity throughout, captivating the audience with its non-stop action.

The turning point arguably came in the ninth and tenth rounds. Beterbiev seemed to find another gear, unleashing a barrage of power punches that visibly shook Bivol. The challenger’s movement became less effective, and he began to absorb more punishment. Although he still showed incredible heart and continued to fire back, the tide had clearly turned.

The end came swiftly in the eleventh round. A series of brutal body shots and uppercuts followed by a powerful left hook sent Bivol reeling. He stumbled backward, clearly hurt, and although he attempted to recover, referee Michael Griffin quickly stepped in to stop the fight, awarding Beterbiev the TKO victory.

The victory unifies the WBC, WBO, and IBF light heavyweight titles under Beterbiev's belt, solidifying his position as the undisputed champion of the division. Bivol, despite the defeat, leaves the ring with his head held high, having faced a formidable opponent and demonstrated exceptional skill and heart. The fight delivered on its promise of high-octane action and leaves fans eagerly anticipating what the future holds for both fighters.

Round-by-Round Summary (Partial – Focus on key moments):

• Rounds 1-3: Beterbiev establishes pressure, lands significant power punches. Bivol utilizes speed and counterpunching. Beterbiev's eye is already visibly swelling.
• Rounds 4-6: Beterbiev continues his assault, targeting the body effectively. Bivol’s movement slows.
• Rounds 7-8: Bivol shows remarkable resilience but takes increasing punishment.
• Rounds 9-10: Beterbiev visibly increases his output, landing numerous heavy blows; Bivol appears increasingly fatigued.
• Round 11: Beterbiev lands a devastating combination, culminating in a powerful left hook that forces the referee to stop the contest.

The fight highlighted the contrasting styles of both fighters, proving that relentless pressure and power can overcome even the most skilled defensive tactics. Beterbiev's victory establishes him as one of the most dominant forces in boxing today. The future of the light heavyweight division is now undeniably in his hands.