Dmitry Bivol’s return from back surgery will come against IBF mandatory Michael Eifert on Saturday in Ekaterinburg, Russia, a title defense that many boxing fans see as little more than an adjustment for the unified light heavyweight champion.
Eifert (13-1, 5 KOs) earned his mandatory position three years ago when he defeated former world champion Jean Pascal in an IBF eliminator in Montreal. Since then, he has only boxed once while waiting for his title opportunity.
The long delay came when Bivol and Artur Beterbiev fought twice before Bivol underwent back surgery and spent months recovering.
“I had to learn patience, but knowing what I was waiting for helped: A chance to fight for four belts. A fight like that has been my dream since childhood. In the end, every bit of waiting was worth it,” said Eifert. The Ring to finally get a world title. “It’s been a long wait, a real roller coaster.”
Many fans questioned whether Eifert belonged in a championship fight of this magnitude, especially after such a long period of inactivity. The German believes he has already answered that doubt.
“Well, the IBF named boxing legend and former world champion Jean Pascal to fight me in a world title eliminator. I went to his hometown of Montreal, Canada and beat him soundly,” Bivol said.
“What more can I do? (Winning the eliminator) gives me the right to challenge the champion.”
Bivol (24-1, 12 KOs) enters the fight as a heavy favorite. The 35-year-old holds The Ring, IBF, WBA and WBO titles and remains one of the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters despite the debate that followed his majority decision victory over Beterbiev in their rematch.
Eifert acknowledges the challenge ahead, but says the opportunity is worth the risk.
“I think everyone in boxing agrees that Bivol is an almost flawless boxer. One of the best light heavyweights the sport has ever seen. A true legend and a great champion.
“I have nothing to lose. I believe in myself and have worked all my life until today. I will leave my heart in that ring to dethrone Dmitri. Everything else we will see in the ring,” said Eifert.
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Last updated on 2026/05/29 at 12:13
