Historic Light-Heavyweight Clash as Beterbiev and Bivol Meet for Undisputed Title

The highly anticipated light-heavyweight boxing match between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, marking the first time all four major world titles are contested in this division since the inception of the four-belt era. This event represents a significant moment in boxing as it pits the undefeated Russian fighters against each other for the WBO, WBC, IBF, and WBA titles.

Saturday’s event is not only notable for the Beterbiev-Bivol clash but also features England’s Raven Chapman, who will participate in Saudi Arabia’s first-ever women’s world title fight. Chapman is set to challenge Australia’s Skye Nicolson for the WBC featherweight title. Additionally, in the cruiserweight category, Australia’s Jai Opetaia defends his IBF belt against British contender Jack Massey.

The boxing event will also see a rematch between British heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke following their draw earlier this year. Commentary for the event will be available live on the BBC Sport website and app starting at 20:00 BST, with Beterbiev and Bivol expected to make their ringwalks around 23:00 BST. Television coverage is set to commence at 17:00 BST, offering an extensive look at the undercard beginning at 19:00 BST.

Among the notable figures preparing commentary for the event is Steve Bunce, part of the BBC Radio 5 Live Boxing team. Bunce will be joined by former world champion Darren Barker. Discussions with Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn are also expected, focusing on the Riyadh Season’s impact on the boxing landscape. Nicolson and Opetaia, promoted by Matchroom, will express their thoughts on their upcoming defenses.

For the Beterbiev-Bivol bout, American referee Thomas Taylor has been appointed to oversee the historic contest. Taylor brings extensive experience, having officiated 673 fights, including high-stakes encounters such as Andy Ruiz versus Jarrell Miller. The panel of judges includes American Glenn Feldman, Spain’s Manuel Oliver Palomo, and Pawel Kardyni from Poland, all seasoned officials with histories in judging significant bouts.

The confrontation between Beterbiev, who maintains a 20-0 record with a 100% knockout ratio, and Bivol, holding a 23-0 record noted for skillful tactics and precision punching, promises to be a display of power against strategy. The bout, delayed earlier this year, raises considerable intrigue among boxing enthusiasts worldwide.

Viewers can catch the fight on DAZN, except in the US and Canada where it will be broadcast via ESPN+. Fans in the UK can access the broadcast through Sky Sports Box Office and TNT Sports Box Office. Odds suggest a closely fought encounter, with Beterbiev slightly behind at 6/5 and Bivol at 8/11, indicating the competitive nature of this historic fight.