Hearn’s Confidence in Bivol
Promoter Eddie Hearn is riding high on the success of his fighter, Dmitry Bivol, who recently dethroned the previously unbeaten Artur Beterbiev to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Hearn is not only confident in Bivol’s current status but also believes that the Russian fighter will only continue to improve. In a recent statement, Hearn boldly claimed that if Bivol and Beterbiev were to meet again, Bivol would secure a victory "much easier" this time around. This assertion is rooted in Bivol’s dominant performance in their first encounter, where he won by a 12-round unanimous decision on May 7, 2022. Hearn’s confidence is not just a matter of pride; it’s a strategic move to position Bivol for bigger fights and more lucrative opportunities.
The Push for Canelo Alvarez
One of the key strategies Hearn is employing is to push for a fight between Bivol and Canelo Alvarez. Hearn believes that capturing the undisputed championship from Beterbiev will motivate Alvarez to move up to the 175-pound weight class to challenge Bivol for his titles. This was a topic Hearn had discussed leading up to the Bivol-Beterbiev fight, emphasizing the potential for a high-profile matchup. However, Hearn will need to lower his expectations about the fights Bivol can secure now that he holds the four major belts. The reality is that Bivol’s real options are limited to a trilogy fight with Beterbiev, a mandatory defense against David Benavidez, or a bout with Callum Smith. These are the most feasible and financially viable options for Bivol at this stage in his career.
The Mercenary Factor
Canelo Alvarez is known for his strategic and mercenary approach to fighting. He is unlikely to give Bivol the time of day unless the financial incentives are astronomical. This was evident in their previous encounter, where Alvarez lost by a wide margin and chose not to seek a rematch. The size difference between the two fighters is significant, with Bivol standing at 6’1” and Alvarez at 5’8”. This physical disparity makes the fight an unwinnable proposition for Alvarez, who is more likely to pursue fights where he has a better chance of success. The only way to lure Alvarez into a fight with Bivol is through an enormous payday, similar to the one being offered for his upcoming bout with Terence Crawford in September. Promoter Turki Alalshikh, known for his deep pockets, could potentially make such a fight happen if he is willing to throw an insane amount of money at Alvarez. Even then, the odds of Alvarez taking the fight are slim, given the risk and the lack of a clear path to victory.
Bivol’s Dethroning of Beterbiev
Bivol’s victory over Beterbiev was a significant moment in boxing history, as it marked the end of Beterbiev’s reign as the undisputed light heavyweight champion. The fight took place last Saturday night at The Venue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and was a twelve-round majority decision in Bivol’s favor. Despite Beterbiev’s reputation as a powerful puncher, Bivol’s strategy of running around the ring, throwing punches, and holding proved effective. The judges scored the fight 115-113, 116-112, and 114-114, with many fans and analysts seeing it as a draw. The 8-4 score by the American judge for Bivol was particularly surprising and raised eyebrows, as it seemed to give Beterbiev no chance of winning. Nevertheless, Bivol’s win was expected, and it has opened up new possibilities for his career.
The Financial and Strategic Implications
The financial and strategic implications of Bivol’s victory are significant. Some believe that Bivol won the fight because there are more lucrative opportunities for him as the champion. Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez, for instance, are more likely to fight a finesse fighter like Bivol than a power puncher like Beterbiev. This perception adds a layer of complexity to the sport, where the outcome of a fight can be influenced by the potential for future financial gains. Hearn’s push for a Canelo-Bivol fight is not just about proving Bivol’s dominance; it’s also about maximizing the financial potential of his fighter. However, the reality is that unless the financial offer is irresistible, Alvarez is unlikely to take the risk of fighting Bivol again.
Hearn’s Vision for Bivol’s Future
Eddie Hearn’s vision for Bivol’s future is ambitious and strategic. He sees Bivol as a fighter who is only going to get better and is ready to face all comers. Hearn’s confidence in Bivol’s abilities is evident, and he is already looking ahead to potential matchups that could solidify Bivol’s status as a top-tier fighter. While the trilogy fight with Beterbiev and the mandatory defense against Benavidez are the most immediate options, Hearn is not ruling out the possibility of bigger fights down the line. His push for a Canelo-Bivol fight is a testament to his belief in Bivol’s potential and his desire to create the most exciting and profitable matchups for his fighter. Whether these fights materialize remains to be seen, but Hearn’s unwavering support for Bivol is a clear indication of his commitment to building a legacy for the Russian champion.
