WBC reveals Dmitry Bivol’s next opponent – is this the fight of the year?

In a shocking announcement, the World Boxing Council (WBC) has updated its division rankings for February and made it crystal clear who Dmitry Bivol will fight next.

While many boxing fans were eagerly anticipating a trilogy fight between Bivol and Artur Beterbiev after their intense rematch in Riyadh, that highly anticipated bout will have to wait a little longer.

The WBC has officially declared that Dmitry Bivol “must fight David Benavidez next.” This unexpected decision has stirred up discussions among fans and analysts, yet it aligns with the current landscape of the light heavyweight division.

The boxing world now shifts its focus to this massive showdown, which promises to be an electrifying battle between two of the sport’s most dominant fighters.

Latest Developments in the Light Heavyweight Division

The WBC has laid out the roadmap for the light heavyweight division in February 2025, including the most significant bouts:

• February 1: David Benavidez defeated David Morrell in Las Vegas, securing a mandatory challenger position.
• February 22: Dmitry Bivol defeated Artur Beterbiev in Riyadh, becoming the undisputed light heavyweight champion.
• Final Decision: Dmitry Bivol must fight David Benavidez next.

This ruling has sparked heated debates among boxing enthusiasts. While some believe that a Bivol vs. Beterbiev III is the most logical conclusion to their rivalry, others argue that this is the perfect opportunity for David Benavidez to prove himself on the biggest stage.

With the undisputed championship on the line, this fight has enormous implications. Will Bivol continue his dominance, or will Benavidez shock the world?

David Benavidez: A Worthy Challenger for Dmitry Bivol?

David Benavidez is no stranger to the boxing world. A two-time super middleweight champion, he has long sought opportunities to challenge himself at higher weight classes.

Following his victory over David Morrell, Benavidez confidently expressed his eagerness to fight Bivol.

“To be honest with you, I would pick Bivol because he beat Canelo. So basically, when I beat Bivol, that would make my case even stronger against Canelo.

I know Bivol very well—I have sparred with him a lot. He’s a great fighter, and we’ve had some amazing sparring sessions. I would definitely love to fight him.”

This statement makes it clear that Benavidez not only welcomes the challenge but sees this fight as his ticket to superstardom.

The matchup is not just about championships—it’s about legacy, pride, and the opportunity to become a global boxing icon.

Bivol vs. Benavidez: A Clash of Opposing Styles

One of the most exciting aspects of this matchup is the stark contrast in fighting styles between these two warriors:

• Dmitry Bivol is a technical mastermind, known for his exceptional distance control, precise punching, and fluid movement. He has already dismantled Canelo Alvarez, proving that his style is extremely effective against aggressive opponents.
• David Benavidez, on the other hand, is an all-out pressure fighter, constantly marching forward with relentless combinations, breaking down his opponents with sheer volume and intensity.

This fight is not just about strength—it’s a battle between two completely different boxing philosophies.

Will Bivol’s technical brilliance prevail, or will Benavidez’s overwhelming pressure break him down?

Key Factors That Will Determine the Outcome

When analyzing their records and fighting styles, several crucial factors emerge that could decide the fight’s outcome:

Strategy: Bivol excels at controlling the pace, while Benavidez thrives on overwhelming pressure. Who will successfully dictate the fight?

Stamina: Benavidez is known for his incredible endurance, but Bivol has never shown signs of fatigue, even in grueling championship rounds.

Experience at 175 lbs: Bivol has long established himself as the top fighter in the light heavyweight division, while Benavidez has only recently moved up in weight. How will this impact the fight?

Fight-Changing Punch: If Benavidez gets inside and unloads his signature combinations, Bivol could be in trouble. But if Bivol maintains range and counters effectively, he can neutralize Benavidez’s pressure.

Defense vs. Offense: Bivol’s defense is one of the best in the game, making it extremely difficult to hit cleanly. Can Benavidez break through and land the shots he needs to win?

Potential Scenarios: Who Holds the Advantage?

Based on expert analysis, there are two primary scenarios that could unfold in this fight:

Scenario 1: Bivol Wins by Decision:
If Bivol can maintain distance, utilize his superior technique, and avoid getting trapped by Benavidez, he is likely to win via a unanimous decision.

Scenario 2: Benavidez Wins by Knockout:
If Benavidez successfully closes the distance, targets the body, and lands his relentless combinations, he could wear Bivol down and secure a knockout or TKO victory.

Wild Card Factor: Benavidez’s aggression could either be his biggest weapon or his downfall. If he rushes in recklessly, Bivol might capitalize with sharp counters and completely neutralize him.

The Bigger Picture: A Path to Canelo Alvarez?

One of the biggest reasons this fight carries so much weight is that it could determine who faces Canelo Alvarez next.

If Bivol wins, the long-awaited Bivol vs. Canelo rematch will gain even more momentum. However, if Benavidez pulls off the upset, he will have a legitimate claim to a mega-fight with Canelo, setting the stage for yet another blockbuster showdown.

A victory here would cement either fighter’s legacy, making them an undisputed superstar in the boxing world.

One of the biggest reasons this fight carries so much weight is that it could determine who faces Canelo Alvarez next.

If Bivol wins, the long-awaited Bivol vs. Canelo rematch will gain even more momentum. However, if Benavidez pulls off the upset, he will have a legitimate claim to a mega-fight with Canelo, setting the stage for yet another blockbuster showdown.

Regardless of the outcome, Bivol vs. Benavidez is a fight that will reshape the landscape of boxing’s light heavyweight division.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch Showdown!

This is not just another title defense—Dmitry Bivol vs. David Benavidez is a battle to determine the true king of the division.

A technical genius vs. an unstoppable force—who will reign supreme?

Will Bivol’s discipline and precision dismantle Benavidez?
Or will Benavidez’s relentless attack break Bivol down?

The world will be watching as two elite fighters step into the ring, fighting for legacy, glory, and the right to be called the best!

Mark your calendars—this is a war you don’t want to miss!