Sat Oct 12 22:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Beterbiev Becomes Undisputed Light-Heavyweight Champion in Thrilling Saudi Arabia Bout
**RIYADH** – In a highly anticipated clash of titans, Russian-born Canadian boxer Artur Beterbiev emerged victorious over his Russian rival Dmitry Bivol, claiming the undisputed light-heavyweight world championship title in Saudi Arabia on Sunday.
The fight, which saw Bivol become the first man to take Beterbiev the distance, went down to the wire with two judges scoring it 115-113 and 116-112 in favor of Beterbiev, while the third judge called it a draw at 114-114.
Bivol, holding the WBA belt, and Beterbiev, reigning WBC, WBO, and IBF champion, entered the bout undefeated. The match, postponed from June due to Beterbiev’s knee injury, marked the first time in over two decades that the four recognized major belts in the light-heavyweight division were unified.
The fight showcased the contrasting styles of the two boxers, with Bivol employing a more fluid and elusive approach against Beterbiev’s aggressive and powerful punching style. While the match lacked fireworks, it provided a compelling display of technical skill and strategic prowess.
“I wanted to box more, I don’t like this fight. I was a little bit uncomfortable,” admitted Beterbiev. “I felt uncomfortable because usually, I’m not waiting for the bell.”
Bivol, despite the loss, remained optimistic about the future, suggesting a potential rematch. “I just congratulate Artur and his team, he deserves it,” said Bivol. “I did my job, I felt I could do better, I always feel I can do better, but that’s the opinion of the judges. He won.”
The main event was preceded by a thrilling undercard, which saw Australian cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia retain his IBF title after Jack Massey’s corner threw in the towel in the sixth round. Unbeaten Australian Skye Nicolson also defended her WBC featherweight belt against Raven Chapman in a unanimous decision, marking the first women’s world title fight in Saudi Arabia.
The night also saw a draw between British light-heavyweights Ben Whittaker and Liam Cameron and a first-round stoppage victory for Fabio Wardley over Frazer Clarke in the British heavyweight title bout.
First Piper 