The Trilogy That Never Was: Bivol vs. Beterbiev and the Art of Boxing Politics
There’s something deeply frustrating about a fight that should happen but doesn’t. In the case of Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev, it’s not just frustration—it’s a full-blown spectacle of missed opportunities, ego, and the murky waters of boxing politics. Personally, I think this saga is a perfect case study in how the sport’s greatest rivalries can be derailed by forces far removed from the ring.
The Fights That Captivated the World
Let’s start with the obvious: Bivol and Beterbiev’s first two encounters were nothing short of legendary. Their October 2024 and February 2025 battles were masterclasses in skill, strategy, and sheer willpower. Beterbiev’s victory in the first fight cemented his status as the undisputed light heavyweight champion, while Bivol’s rematch win was a testament to his adaptability and resilience. What makes this particularly fascinating is how these fights weren’t just about titles—they were about legacy. Both men had something to prove, and they delivered in ways that left fans craving more.
The IBA’s Bold Move
Enter the International Boxing Association (IBA), which has been pushing for a trilogy fight with the kind of fervor usually reserved for championship bouts. IBA president Umar Kremlev has been vocal about his disappointment, and frankly, I don’t blame him. The organization has reportedly offered Bivol double the purse of his previous fights, and Beterbiev is supposedly willing to fight for free. From my perspective, this is a no-brainer—a third fight would be a massive draw, both financially and culturally. But here’s where things get interesting: Bivol’s team has declined.
Why Bivol’s Silence Speaks Volumes
One thing that immediately stands out is Bivol’s silence on the matter. While Beterbiev has been vocal about his desire for a trilogy, Bivol has remained cryptic. Some speculate it’s about money, but if the IBA’s offer is as lucrative as they claim, that seems unlikely. What many people don’t realize is that boxing is as much a business as it is a sport. Bivol’s decision to vacate his WBC title and pursue other fights—like the upcoming bout with Callum Smith—suggests he’s playing the long game. Is he prioritizing legacy over rivalry? Or is there something else at play?
The Role of Mandatory Challengers
Here’s where the plot thickens. Bivol’s upcoming fight with Smith isn’t just another bout—it’s a mandatory defense ordered by the WBO. This raises a deeper question: Are mandatory challengers the real villains here? On one hand, they ensure fighters stay active and competitive. On the other, they can derail superfights that fans desperately want. If you take a step back and think about it, the boxing ecosystem is designed to prioritize these mandates, often at the expense of the fights we truly care about.
Beterbiev’s Dilemma
Meanwhile, Beterbiev finds himself in a peculiar position. At 41, time is not on his side. While he’s expressed frustration with Bivol’s lack of urgency, his willingness to fight for free speaks volumes about his commitment to this rivalry. A detail that I find especially interesting is how Beterbiev’s team has been open to other opponents, including David Benavidez. Is this a strategic move to pressure Bivol, or is Beterbiev genuinely moving on?
The Broader Implications
What this really suggests is that boxing’s biggest fights are often decided outside the ring. Promoters, sanctioning bodies, and financial backers all have a say, and fighters are often caught in the crossfire. The Bivol-Beterbiev saga is a microcosm of this larger issue. It’s not just about two men settling a score—it’s about the sport’s inability to prioritize fan interest over bureaucratic red tape.
A Missed Opportunity?
In my opinion, the failure to secure a trilogy fight is a missed opportunity for everyone involved. Fans lose out on a historic matchup, the fighters miss a chance to cement their legacies, and the sport itself loses a moment to captivate a global audience. What this really suggests is that boxing needs a systemic overhaul—one that prioritizes the fights fans want over the fights the system demands.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on this saga, I can’t help but wonder: Will we ever see Bivol and Beterbiev in the ring again? Personally, I think the door isn’t completely closed, but it’s certainly narrowing. Boxing has a way of surprising us, but for now, this trilogy remains a tantalizing “what if.” What makes this particularly tragic is that it’s not just about two fighters—it’s about the sport’s inability to rise above its own chaos. And that, in my opinion, is the real knockout blow.
