Former two-time heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman believes Artur Beterbiev’s power will be too much for Dmitry Bivol when they meet this Saturday in Riyadh.
While Rahman acknowledges Bivol’s superior boxing skills, footwork, and ability to outbox most opponents, he doesn’t think those qualities will be enough against the raw power of Beterbiev. ”If Bivol makes Beterbiev box, he’ll beat him. He’s a better fighter,” Rahman said, but he added that Beterbiev’s ability to cut off the ring and force exchanges will ultimately turn the tide in his favor. According to Rahman, Bivol’s tendency to get hit and retaliate aggressively will lead to his downfall against a fighter with Beterbiev’s devastating punching power.
Watch Behind the Belts with Artur Beterbiev: Watch
Rahman also highlighted Beterbiev’s amateur pedigree, noting that his power has always been a defining trait, even during his days in the 200-pound division. Now, as a dominant force at 175 lbs, Beterbiev’s knockout streak continues to intimidate opponents. Rahman believes age is the only factor that might slow down the 38-year-old champion, but he doubts it will play a role this weekend.
Despite Rahman’s prediction of a knockout win for Beterbiev, not everyone agrees. Cruiserweight Gilberto Ramirez, who was outboxed by Bivol in 2022, believes the WBA champ has the skills to stay away from Beterbiev’s power and win on points. “I like the way Bivol moves. I think he can win by decision,” Ramirez said, siding with the man who defeated him.
All in all this upcoming bout promises to answer a lot of questions in the light heavyweight division. But if Rahman’s prediction comes true, Beterbiev’s knockout streak will extend to 21, and Bivol’s undefeated record will come to an abrupt end. Will it occur? We will see.
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