Dmitry Bivol Faces Beterbiev Order, Benavidez Fight Delayed Dmitry Bivol’s potential return to the ring against Artur Beterbiev could disrupt his planned showdown with David Benavidez, creating a significant delay in the light heavyweight division’s title picture. The mandatory trilogy between Bivol and Beterbiev, if enforced, would force Bivol into a third fight with the Russian, pushing back his next major matchup with the undefeated Benavidez. This development has sparked discussions about the future of the division, as both fighters remain central figures in the 175-pound weight class. Benavidez, who is set to move up to cruiserweight this weekend to face Gilberto Ramirez, is expected to return to 175 pounds after the fight to pursue the undisputed title. However, the timing of his return is contingent on the outcome of his upcoming bout, which has been widely anticipated as a potential stepping stone toward a showdown with Bivol. Despite the high demand for a Benavidez-Bivol fight, the outcome of the Beterbiev trilogy could determine whether the matchup ever materializes. Eddie Hearn, Bivol’s promoter, has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the Beterbiev III fight. In a statement to Fighthype, Hearn emphasized that while the Benavidez-Bivol matchup is a compelling prospect, the possibility of a third fight with Beterbiev complicates the timeline. “I think that Benavidez-Bivol is a great fight, but we have got this kind of loose obligation with the Beterbiev III fight which, if it is called upon, we have to take it,” Hearn said. He added that if the trilogy does not proceed, the Benavidez fight would be a logical next step. Bivol’s schedule is already packed, with two title defenses against Michael Eifert scheduled for next month.#dmitry_bivol #artur_beterbiev #david_benavidez #gilberto_ramirez #eddie_hearn
