Last Crescendo: Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
The highly anticipated rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, dubbed "Last Crescendo," is set to explode at the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this Saturday. This event promises to be a spectacle of world-class boxing, featuring a nine-bout card with the main event being the undisputed light heavyweight title bout between Beterbiev and Bivol. The matchup is expected to draw global attention, with both fighters bringing their A-game to the ring in a clash that could redefine the landscape of the light heavyweight division.
Preliminary Card: Setting the Stage
The preliminary action of the Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 card kicks off early at 9:30 a.m. ET on MMA Fighting, providing fans with a morning full of excitement. This portion of the card includes two intriguing bouts that will warm up the crowd and set the tone for the main event. Ziyad Almaayouf, a Saudi fighter, will face off against Brazil’s Jonatas Oliveira in a bout that is sure to showcase the home crowd’s enthusiasm. Following that, Mohammed Alakel, another Saudi representative, will take on Engel Gomez, adding more local flavor to the proceedings. These early matches are not just fillers but are expected to deliver their own share of drama and nail-biting moments.
Pay-Per-View Extravaganza: Fight Card on DAZN and PPV.com
The action then transitions to the pay-per-view on DAZN and PPV.com at 10:30 a.m. ET, where the main card takes center stage. This segment of the event features six high-stakes bouts, each with its own compelling storyline. The main event, Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol, is the highlight, as Beterbiev aims to defend his undisputed light heavyweight title. Both fighters are known for their devastating power and strategic prowess, making this bout a must-watch for boxing enthusiasts.
Defending the Throne: Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol
Artur Beterbiev, the current undisputed light heavyweight champion, is a force to be reckoned with. His 18-0 record, with 18 knockouts, speaks volumes about his knockout power and relentless style. Beterbiev will be stepping into the ring around 6 p.m. ET, making his way to the ring with the confidence of a champion. On the other hand, Dmitry Bivol, with a record of 20-0 and 11 knockouts, is no stranger to high-stakes fights. Known for his technical brilliance and defensive capabilities, Bivol will be looking to dethrone Beterbiev and solidify his status as the top dog in the division. The ring walks for this pivotal battle are expected to be a spectacle, with both fighters making grand entrances and the tension building to a fever pitch.
Supporting Cast: Notable Undercard Fights
While the main event steals the spotlight, the undercard is packed with bouts that are guaranteed to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Martin Bakole, a rising heavyweight star, will face Joseph Parker in a clash of power punchers. Bakole’s recent performances have been nothing short of impressive, and he will be looking to add another win to his growing résumé. In the featherweight division, Shakur Stevenson will take on Josh Padley, a bout that is expected to be a technical showcase with high energy. Carlos Adames and Hamzah Sheeraz will battle it out in the welterweight division, while Virgil Ortiz Jr. will face Israil Madrimov in a junior welterweight bout. These fights are not just about the outcome but also about the potential for future stars to emerge and make their mark.
Heavyweight Contenders: Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel and Joshua Buatsi vs. Callum Smith
The heavyweight division is also well-represented on the card. Zhilei Zhang, a hard-hitting Chinese fighter, will square off against Germany’s Agit Kabayel in a bout that promises to be a knockdown, drag-out affair. Both fighters bring significant power to the table, and the winner could find themselves in the conversation for a shot at a world title. In the co-main event, Joshua Buatsi, a 2016 Olympic bronze medalist, will face Callum Smith, a former super middleweight champion. This bout is a clash of styles and a test of endurance, with both fighters aiming to cement their place in the heavyweight hierarchy. The ring walks for these fighters will be just as compelling, as they prepare to lay it all on the line in the pursuit of glory.
A Night of Thrills and Chills: The Ring Walks and Final Preparations
The ring walks for the main event and the undercard bouts are a crucial part of the spectacle, setting the mood and building anticipation. Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol are expected to make their grand entrances around 6 p.m. ET, with the arena likely to be a sea of excitement and tension. The AUX cast will meticulously cover these moments, ensuring that fans around the world can experience every detail of the fighters’ final preparations and emotional build-up. The ring walks are not just a formality but a chance for each fighter to connect with their fans, express their confidence, and set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable night of boxing.
