By Geoffrey Ciani – 15/10/2024 – Commentary
This past weekend, Artur Beterbiev was awarded a 12-round majority decision against Dmitri Bivol.
The victory marked Beterbiev as the first undisputed world light heavyweight champion during the modern 4-belt era. It was an engaging clash of styles that produced an interesting tactical affair. Bivol was faster and used very good movement for much of the contest, where his excellent defense and quick variety of different combinations made him effective. At the same time, Artur was consistent and methodical, applying intelligent pressure with economical footwork that allowed him to selectively discharge his power.
This one had enough close and competitive rounds that scoring the fight was a bit of a judging nightmare. The official judges’ scorecards were 115-113 for Beterbievl, 116-113 for Beterbiev, and the third judge scored a tie at 114 each. The fight was close enough that it could reasonably have gone either way, or it might even have ended in a draw. Some fans referred to the decision as a “robbery”, but it was nothing of the sort. These days someone always screams robbery when a fight is closely contested, and this fight was no exception.
The competitive nature of the fight should undoubtedly result in an immediate rematch, and rightfully so. Beterbiev and Bivol have both already proven themselves to be head and shoulders above the rest of the division, and their intriguing tactical battle only further confirmed this fact. Turki Al-Sheikh has already indicated that he would like to see a rematch, and hopefully that one comes together.
This issue of Rummy’s Corner will provide a quick review with opinions on the undisputed light heavyweight championship fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitri Bivol. Please watch and enjoy the video for one man’s opinion. This is Rummy’s Corner (produced and narrated by Geoffrey Ciani).
Last updated on 15/10/2024
