Artur Beterbiev has not fought since dropping his undisputed light-heavyweight world title in a rematch with Dmitry Bivol final February. He has now revealed that he agreed to a struggle with David Benavidez till the latter’s workforce had a change of coronary heart.
Beterbiev turned the primary undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the four-belt period when he outpointed Bivol in October 2024, however the tables had been turned of their rematch 4 months later, as Bivol claimed the throne.
Ever since, the pair have been linked to a trilogy affair, however many boxing followers appear extra enthusiastic about a showdown between Bivol and Benavidez, who presently holds the WBC light-heavyweight title in addition to the unified cruiserweight world titles.
Nevertheless, following the WBO’s current order, it appears as if Bivol might as a substitute struggle Liverpool’s Callum Smith if he needs to retain that belt earlier than he can pursue a conflict with both Benavidez or Beterbiev.
Consequently, there are recommendations that Benavidez and Beterbiev may meet, with the winner shifting on to an undisputed conflict with Bivol.
In an interview with Match TV, Beterbiev stated that Benavidez’s workforce just lately turned that struggle down, regardless of beforehand agreeing to the bout following ‘The Mexican Monster’s’ win over Anthony Yarde again in November.
“Benavidez is such an individual that talks much more than he does. However, we should admit that it is rather competently carried out. He’s already a three-weight world champion, however his boxing is soiled and, after all, there are questions on a few of his victories.
“He had a struggle with Anthony Yarde and I agreed to return out with him after that struggle. Apparently, his workforce didn’t count on me to agree so rapidly, so that they instantly modified their thoughts and selected [Zurdo] Ramirez.
“That was a yr in the past, normally, this has change into the norm in boxing – I’ll field, I can’t, I’ll select my opponents – I like this one and I don’t like that one. I’ve a special mentality – it’s alien to me.”
On the age of 41, Beterbiev is constant to coach, hopeful of securing the chance to tackle Bivol for a 3rd time and cement himself because the victor of a trilogy that might be remembered for generations to return.
