The boxing world witnessed a clash of titans on February 22, 2025, as Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol stepped into the ring for their highly anticipated rematch at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This was more than just a title defense—it was a battle for supremacy in the light heavyweight division, a fight between two of the most skilled and dominant champions in recent history.
Their first encounter in 2024 ended in controversy, with fans and analysts divided over the result. This time, there would be no doubt, no debate. Beterbiev, known for his unmatched power and relentless aggression, delivered a statement-making performance, proving that when it comes to sheer dominance, he stands alone at the top.
With a brutal ninth-round TKO, Beterbiev broke Bivol down, cementing himself as the most feared puncher in boxing today.
Now, let’s break down how the fight unfolded and how Beterbiev crushed Bivol with relentless power.
Beterbiev Crushes Bivol with Relentless Power
Artur Beterbiev successfully defended his WBC, IBF, and WBO light heavyweight titles with a stunning technical knockout (TKO) victory over Dmitry Bivol. This highly anticipated rematch between two of boxing’s best was expected to be a close, tactical battle—but Beterbiev had other plans. He delivered a brutal, commanding performance, forcing the referee to stop the fight in Round 9, as Bivol could no longer defend himself against the relentless onslaught.
This victory cements Beterbiev’s status as one of the most feared knockout artists in boxing history.
Rounds 1–4: Bivol Starts Strong, But Beterbiev’s Pressure Builds
The fight began with Dmitry Bivol using his speed and precision to control the early rounds. His sharp jab kept Beterbiev at bay, and his quick footwork allowed him to circle away from danger. Bivol landed clean, straight punches, preventing Beterbiev from closing the distance.
However, Beterbiev never panicked. He steadily walked Bivol down, cutting off angles and targeting the body with heavy hooks. By the end of Round 4, Bivol was already showing signs of slowing down as Beterbiev’s relentless pressure began to take its toll.
Rounds 5–7: Beterbiev Takes Complete Control
By Round 5, the fight had shifted. Beterbiev had found his rhythm, walking through Bivol’s punches and landing thudding shots to the head and body. His ring IQ was on full display as he cut off Bivol’s escape routes and forced him into dangerous exchanges.
In Round 7, Beterbiev landed a devastating right hook, staggering Bivol for the first time in the fight. Bivol clinched to survive, but the momentum had fully swung in Beterbiev’s favor.
Round 9: The Finish—Beterbiev Unleashes the Knockout Blow
Sensing Bivol was fading, Beterbiev came out in Round 9 with one goal—end the fight. He upped the intensity, backing Bivol into the ropes and launching a relentless assault.
Bivol tried to respond with straight punches, but Beterbiev expertly dodged them and countered with a massive right hook to the chin. Bivol staggered—his legs buckled, and he struggled to stay upright.
Smelling blood, Beterbiev unleashed a flurry of punishing shots—a vicious left hook followed by a powerful right hand. Bivol’s head snapped back, and he was completely defenseless.
The referee had seen enough. He stepped in and waved off the fight, declaring Beterbiev the winner by TKO.
As the crowd erupted, Beterbiev raised his hands in triumph, solidifying himself as the most dominant force in the light heavyweight division.
Beterbiev’s Victory Secures His Legacy
Unmatched Power and Precision
With this win, Artur Beterbiev extends his perfect record to 22-0, with all 21 wins coming by knockout. This 100% KO ratio is unheard of at the elite level, proving that he is not just a champion—he is a once-in-a-generation knockout artist.
What’s Next for Beterbiev?
Speaking after the fight, Beterbiev made his intentions clear:
“I respect Bivol, but tonight I showed who the best is. I fight with everything I have, and I will continue proving it in every fight.”
Beterbiev now has options:
Will he go for undisputed status against WBA champion Dan Azeez?
Could he move up to cruiserweight to conquer a new division?
One thing is certain: whoever faces Beterbiev next is in for a world of trouble.
Where Does Dmitry Bivol Go from Here?
A Setback, But Not the End
Despite the loss, Dmitry Bivol remains one of the most technically skilled boxers in the world. He showed flashes of brilliance early in the fight, but against a relentless force like Beterbiev, technique alone wasn’t enough.
The Road to Redemption
Bivol was understandably disappointed but remained determined:
“I gave my best, but tonight belonged to Beterbiev. I’ll come back stronger.”
With his skill and experience, Bivol has plenty of paths forward:
A potential rematch with Beterbiev down the line
A title shot against another top contender
A move to cruiserweight for a fresh challenge
Bivol has been an elite fighter for years, and one loss doesn’t define him. Expect him to bounce back with a vengeance.
Final Thoughts:
Artur Beterbiev’s TKO victory over Dmitry Bivol wasn’t just another title defense—it was a statement win that will be remembered for years.
Key Questions After the Fight
Who will step up to challenge Beterbiev next?
Can Bivol bounce back and reclaim a world title?
Is Beterbiev ready to move up in weight and dominate another division?
No matter what happens next, one thing is clear: Beterbiev is the king of the light heavyweight division, and his reign is far from over.
🔥 Stay tuned—boxing’s most feared knockout artist is just getting started!
