There were many years when an undisputed champion in boxing was not really mentioned a lot. In recent years, though, it has become a big thing, as there has been an uptick with 11 undisputed champions since 2017.
One of the biggest undisputed title fights that could be made was Artur Beterbiev (21-0, 20 KO’s) against Dmitry Bivol (23-1, 12 KO’s). Many clamored for this fight, as the knockout king in Beterbiev would be taking on a technical master in Bivol.
The dream for many fans came true as the two met for light heavyweight (175 pounds) supremacy last night.
It was a fight that was difficult to predict – say 50-50 in terms of whether we would see a knockout from Beterbiev or a decision for Bivol after a great technical performance.
In the early going, Bivol was in rhythm and seemed to jump out to a lead with his boxing skill withstanding the pressure from Beterbiev.
The sixth round was a key round as Beterbiev applied more pressure and seemed to disrupt Bivol, who would throw and land some solid shots, but to no effect.
I had, from the halfway point, an even three rounds to three.
The second half of the fight was some high-quality boxing.
We saw some differences in Beterbiev’s game. Not only did he use the pressure, but also his strong jab and bodywork, which made Bivol fight.
It also showed that Bivol could stand and trade when needed. The fight was not going as many thought it would, but it was a tense and high-level affair.
The championship rounds made the difference. Through nine, I had Bivol up five rounds to four and the fight up for grabs in the last three.
Beterbiev felt he was down, and he upped the attack and was more relentless as he gave Bivol less time to take breaks and land his shots.
The constant pressure seemed to cause Bivol to wear down as his movement slowed and fatigue appeared to have set in.
Bivol did throw, but was pulling Beterbiev down and looking to get breathers in moments. It seemed the last three rounds were what caused the loss for Bivol.
The scorecards were read and Beterbiev pulled out a majority decision of (114-114, 115-113, 116-112).
I had it 115-113. I felt the last three rounds sealed it for Beterbiev as the judges all scored the last three the same way.
It was a close competitive fight where both fighters showed just how good they were. The resounding answer from the fans was that Bivol had won and others called it a robbery.
It was a close fight and not a robbery, but the 116-112 scorecard was off to everyone.
Each fighter has welcomed a rematch, with each giving his opponent credit for a strong performance.
It wasn’t a drag out, enthralling fight, but it was a good technical boxing match and I, for one, would not be opposed to watching it again.
