There is increasing talk about Dmitry Bivol’s next opponent.
After defeating Artur Beterbiev on February 22 to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion and avenge his only loss, Bivol may face another tough challenge.
Reports suggest that the WBC has mandated Bivol to defend his title against David Benavidez. However, Turki Alalshikh recently stated he is “no longer interested” in organizing this fight.
Alalshikh advised Bivol to act quickly, hinting at the ever-changing nature of boxing plans.
Julius Julianus of ESPN Knockout reported on Sunday that PBC and Matchroom are nearing an agreement for a Bivol versus David Benavidez fight this summer.
Benavidez, with a perfect record of 30 wins and 24 knockouts, last fought a few weeks prior to Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 in Las Vegas, defeating David Morrell. This was Benavidez’s second fight at 175lbs after moving up in June 2024.
Bivol also has an IBF mandatory obligation to Michael Eifert. The IBF had previously ordered Beterbiev to face Eifert, but allowed Beterbiev to have a voluntary defense, which became the rematch with Bivol.
If Bivol chooses to relinquish his IBF title, Eifert and Conor Wallace could compete for the vacant belt.
