Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2: The Rematch of the Century
This Saturday, February 22, the world of boxing will once again turn its eyes to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the light heavyweight division’s two top contenders, Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, will clash in a highly anticipated rematch. The event, held at the ANB Arena, also features a thrilling co-main event with Daniel Dubois defending his IBF heavyweight title against Joseph Parker. All the action will be broadcast live on DAZN PPV, ensuring that fans from around the globe can witness the spectacle.
Start Times and Viewing Schedules
The main card is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM Saudi Arabia time (KSA), 4:00 PM UK time (GMT), 11:00 AM Eastern Time (USA ET), and 8:00 AM Pacific Time (USA PT). Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the individual fight start times:
- Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2: UK (GMT) 11:00 PM, USA (ET) 6:00 PM, USA (PT) 3:00 PM
- Dubois vs. Parker: UK (GMT) 9:40 PM, USA (ET) 4:40 PM, USA (PT) 1:40 PM
- Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield: UK (GMT) 8:35 PM, USA (ET) 3:35 PM, USA (PT) 12:35 PM
- Carlos Adames vs. Hamzah Sheeraz: UK (GMT) 7:35 PM, USA (ET) 2:35 PM, USA (PT) 11:35 AM
- Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Israil Madrimov: UK (GMT) 6:40 PM, USA (ET) 1:40 PM, USA (PT) 10:40 AM
- Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel: UK (GMT) 5:40 PM, USA (ET) 12:40 PM, USA (PT) 9:40 AM
- Joshua Buatsi vs. Callum Smith: UK (GMT) 4:45 PM, USA (ET) 11:45 AM, USA (PT) 8:45 AM
Please note that these times are approximate and may vary depending on the duration of the undercard fights. Boxing fans should stay tuned to ensure they catch every moment of the action.
Fight Breakdown: Main Event and Co-Main Event
Main Event: Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol 2
In the main event, Artur Beterbiev (21-0, 21 KOs) and Dmitry Bivol (21-1, 11 KOs) are set to square off for a second time, with the WBC, WBO, IBF, and WBA light heavyweight titles on the line. Beterbiev, the undefeated knockout specialist, returns to defend his belts and reassert his dominance following a brutal finish in their first encounter. Known for his 100% KO ratio, Beterbiev’s power and relentlessness have made him a formidable force in the division. Bivol, on the other hand, is determined to avenge his only career loss. Since their 2024 showdown, Bivol has been obsessed with the rematch, focusing on correcting the technical mistakes that led to his defeat. The question remains: can Bivol’s technical brilliance withstand Beterbiev’s relentless power?
Beterbiev Quote:
"This fight means everything to me. I’m here to remind everyone who the king of this division is. Expect nothing less than domination."
Bivol Quote:
"I’ve studied the mistakes I made in the first fight. This time, I’m coming prepared to box smart and leave with the belts."
Co-Main Event: Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker
The co-main event features Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs) of Britain, who will defend his IBF heavyweight title against New Zealand’s Joseph Parker (34-3, 23 KOs). Dubois, the young powerhouse who shockingly stopped Anthony Joshua, aims to further solidify his place among the elite heavyweights. Parker, a veteran with a career resurgence, is determined to reclaim championship gold after his impressive knockout of Deontay Wilder last year. This fight promises to be a clash of styles and generations, with both fighters bringing their A-game to the ring.
Dubois Quote:
"Parker’s a tough guy, but I’ve beaten the best. I’m here to keep my belt and make a statement."
Parker Quote:
"This is my shot to get back to the top. I’ve beaten big names before; Dubois is next."
Key Fights on the Undercard
The undercard is packed with some of the sport’s best talents, each bringing their own story and stakes to the event. Shakur Stevenson, a rising star in the lightweight division, will face Floyd Schofield in a bout that could have future title implications. Carlos Adames and Hamzah Sheeraz will battle for the WBC Middleweight Title, while Vergil Ortiz Jr., a highly touted super welterweight, takes on Israil Madrimov. Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel will vie for interim WBC heavyweight status, and Joshua Buatsi will meet Callum Smith in a light heavyweight scrap. Each of these fights offers a unique blend of skill, determination, and high drama, ensuring that the night will be memorable for all boxing enthusiasts.
Why You Should Watch Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2
High Stakes Rematch
The Beterbiev vs. Bivol rematch is a must-watch event for several reasons. Their first fight was a technical war that showcased the best of both fighters, with Beterbiev ultimately prevailing by knockout. This time, Bivol is coming in with a renewed sense of purpose and a detailed game plan to avenge his loss. For Beterbiev, the rematch is an opportunity to prove that his victory was no fluke and to reassert his dominance in the light heavyweight division. The stakes are high, and the outcome could reshuffle the top contenders in the division.
Dubois Defends His Crown
Daniel Dubois’s defense of the IBF heavyweight title against Joseph Parker is another highlight of the event. Dubois’s upset win over Anthony Joshua last year sent shockwaves through the boxing world, cementing his status as a top contender. Parker, a seasoned veteran with recent wins over notable opponents, is a dangerous challenge that Dubois cannot afford to underestimate. This fight will determine whether Dubois can maintain his newfound status and continue to make waves in the heavyweight division.
Stacked Undercard
Beyond the main and co-main events, the undercard is a treasure trove of exciting bouts. Shakur Stevenson’s lightweight match against Floyd Schofield is a clash of two highly skilled fighters, both vying for future title opportunities. Carlos Adames and Hamzah Sheeraz’s WBC middleweight title fight promises to be a tactical masterpiece, while Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Israil Madrimov’s super welterweight showdown features two heavy hitters. Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel’s heavyweight bout for interim WBC status adds another layer of excitement, and the light heavyweight scrap between Joshua Buatsi and Callum Smith is sure to be a fan favorite.
Prime Time for All Time Zones
One of the unique aspects of this event is its international-friendly start times. Boxing fans across Europe, the United States, and the Middle East can tune in live without missing the action due to inconvenient scheduling. Whether you’re in the UK, enjoying the fights in the evening, or in the US, catching the action in the afternoon or late morning, the timing ensures that everyone can be a part of the excitement. With the main event starting at 11:00 PM UK time and 6:00 PM Eastern Time in the US, fans can look forward to a night filled with thrilling moments.
What You Get with DAZN PPV
Enhanced Viewing Experience
Subscribers to DAZN PPV will not only get to watch the main and co-main events but also enjoy a comprehensive package that includes alternative commentary options. Choose from Adam Smith, True Geordie, or Showbizz the Adult to tailor your viewing experience to your preferences. For UK fans, there’s an added incentive with a prize draw for tickets to the Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn fight. Additionally, a DAZN platform trial offers access to a wide range of live sports, including football, golf, tennis, and more, making this a great opportunity to explore the platform’s offerings.
A Night of Boxing Glory
The Beterbiev vs. Bivol rematch and the Dubois vs. Parker title defense, along with the stacked undercard, are set to deliver a night of boxing glory. From the beginning of the main card to the final bell, fans can expect a series of high-stakes, high-intensity battles that will keep them on the edge of their seats. With so much at stake, these fights are not just about individual glory but the legacy of the sport itself.
Conclusion
This Saturday’s event in Riyadh is a boxing fan’s dream. The main event, Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2, and the co-main event, Dubois vs. Parker, are both high-stakes rematches that promise to deliver on drama and skill. The undercard, featuring a mix of rising stars and seasoned veterans, ensures that the action never lets up. Whether you’re tuning in from the UK, the US, or the Middle East, the timing is perfect to catch all the fights live. So, mark your calendars, gather your fellow boxing enthusiasts, and get ready to witness some of the most exciting moments in the sport.
