The gentle heavyweight division is dealing with a pivotal second because the Worldwide Boxing Federation (IBF) has ordered Artur Beterbiev to defend his undisputed championship in opposition to Germany’s Michael Eifert. This transfer throws uncertainty into the extremely anticipated rematch between Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, a combat followers have been desperate to see. With Beterbiev holding all 4 main belts, this obligatory protection may delay one in all boxing’s most enjoyable potential matchups.
For months, hypothesis has swirled about the potential of Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2. Their first combat left boxing fans divided, with many claiming Bivol ought to have been declared the victor. Not too long ago, Bivol’s workforce petitioned all 4 sanctioning our bodies to demand a direct rematch, however the IBF’s enforcement of Michael Eifert’s obligatory standing has now sophisticated these plans.
“I did what we ready” Beterbiev says after shut resolution win over Bivol
Beterbiev (21-0, 20 KOs), recognized for his devastating knockout energy, is now confronted with a call. Ought to he defend in opposition to the comparatively unknown Eifert (13-1, 5 KOs), or will he try and safe a step-aside settlement to pave the best way for the bigger-money combat with Bivol? Followers of the game are far extra excited a couple of rematch with Bivol than a conflict with Eifert, whose resume lacks the star energy to generate widespread curiosity.
Eifert, a 26-year-old German fighter, earned his obligatory place with a win over former WBA and WBC champion Jean Pascal in 2023. Nonetheless, Pascal, now 40, was not on the high of his sport, making Eifert’s victory much less spectacular to many. Regardless of this, the IBF has granted him the chance to problem Beterbiev, a lot to the frustration of these hoping for a Beterbiev-Bivol rematch.
Beterbiev’s essential resolution: Defend in opposition to Eifert or pursue the Bivol rematch?
Beterbiev is now in a tough place. He may face Eifert to retain his four-belt standing, or he may vacate the IBF title to pursue the extra profitable rematch with Bivol. The stakes are excessive as followers eagerly await his resolution, and Bivol’s workforce continues to push for the rematch that will settle the controversy over their first assembly.
Eifert’s rise within the division, although commendable, hasn’t captured the creativeness of the boxing world. He suffered his solely profession loss in 2020 to Tom Dzemski, solely to avenge that defeat a yr later. Nonetheless, this narrative pales compared to the intrigue surrounding a Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2, which might deliver much-needed pleasure to the division.
Because the boxing world waits for Beterbiev’s subsequent transfer, the IBF’s resolution looms massive. Ought to Beterbiev defend in opposition to Eifert, followers should wait even longer for the rematch they want. Alternatively, if he vacates the IBF belt, it may mark the top of his reign because the undisputed gentle heavyweight champion, a uncommon accomplishment within the sport.
The upcoming weeks will decide whether or not Beterbiev holds onto his undisputed standing or chooses the trail that results in one other thrilling showdown with Bivol. No matter his selection, the sunshine heavyweight division is on the verge of a major turning level.
