Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev faced off at a press conference in London, laying the groundwork for their February 22 rematch in Saudi Arabia. Bivol, who narrowly lost their first light heavyweight clash last October, insists he’s driven by more than titles this time.
"It’s not only about belts now," Bivol said. "I want revenge. I want to avenge what I did before."
The first meeting ended with Beterbiev retaining undisputed status via a narrow decision. Bivol believes the margin was razor-thin, with his team feeling he’d done enough to win. Manager Vadim Kornilov echoed those sentiments, calling it a "very close fight" and suggesting one judge’s card skewed the outcome.
Watch the official press conference highlights: Watch
For Bivol, small changes to his approach could be the difference. He mentioned adding a new coach and refining his style in the pursuit of being "perfect." Meanwhile, Beterbiev says he’s fully focused on "keeping [his] belts," with Top Rank’s Brad Jacobs promising his man "will remain undefeated and undisputed."
Asked if he had a final word for Beterbiev, Bivol - who described himself as "not a postman but an athlete" - made it clear he’s more determined than ever. For the fans, the second meeting of these two elite light heavyweights promises high drama, fueled by pride and a thirst for redemption.
Prepare for Bivol vs. Beterbiev 2.
Image Credit: DAZN