Dmitry Bivol is gearing up for his highly anticipated rematch with Artur Beterbiev, determined to avenge the only loss of his professional career.
After falling short in their first meeting, the former WBA light heavyweight champion has taken a hard look at what went wrong—and, more importantly, what he must change to ensure victory the second time around.
Reflecting on the fight, Bivol admitted he wasn’t satisfied with how things played out. “I won, I lost, it doesn’t matter. I’m just not happy that it’s a close fight,” he said.
He knows that leaving things up to the judges again could be risky, and this time, he wants to make sure there are no doubts.
“If I do my job much more better, then there will be no doubts and excuses for me or for anybody else.”
Dmitry Bivol Admits He Must ‘Throw More Punches’
According to Bivol, who is one of only two men to defeat Canelo, it all comes down to one crucial adjustment: “I have to gain punches in the ring. I have to throw more punches. I just have to be better.”
His opponent, Beterbiev, is known for his relentless pressure and devastating power, and Bivol is aware that his own strategy must evolve.
“He could be more aggressive. He could be more forward. He could throw more punches,” Bivol acknowledged.
As the rematch approaches on February 22nd in Riyadh, Bivol is focused on refining his approach, ensuring that this time, he leaves the ring without any lingering questions about the result.
Bivol’s record sits at 23-1, whilst Beterbiev has never been defeated, with 21 wins.