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Boxing: Moscow likely to host epic Bivol vs Beterbiev decider
The Russian rivalry, which has set the benchmark in the modern professional boxing, could add a new chapter in Moscow, the preferred city to host the event
- PUBLISHED: Wed 1 Apr 2026, 11:41 PM UPDATED: Thu 2 Apr 2026, 3:12 PM
A blockbuster showdown is on the cards as Moscow is likely to stage the third bout between Russian stars Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev.
Umar Kremlev, president of the International Boxing Association (IBA), said the global body is ready to stage the eagerly awaited battle.
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Beterbiev, 41, won a majority decision in October 2024 to hand Bivol the first defeat of his career.
The impressive win in Riyadh also made Beterbiev the first undisputed 175lb champion of the four-belt era.
But Bivol bounced back in style at the same venue four months later to record a majority-decision in the rematch, setting the stage for a mouthwatering third fight between the two talented boxers.
The 35-year-old also became the first fighter to go the distance twice in a row against Beterbiev.
The Russian rivalry, which has set the benchmark in the modern professional boxing, could add a new chapter in Moscow, the preferred city to host the event.
Kremlev said the respective teams of the two fighters may hold preliminary talks later this year.
“IBA stands ready to organise a trilogy fight between Bivol and Beterbiev. These are two of the finest boxers in the world, and their rivalry represents a truly global sporting historical event," Kremlev said.
'However, both fighters are expected to complete one interim bout before facing each other again. Thereafter, by the end of the year, it should be possible to move forward with firm planning and organisation of the third fight."
Amid geopolitical tensions, Kremlev said the organisers would prefer to host the fight in Moscow.
"Our priority is to stage this trilogy in Russia. In my view, hosting such a bout is entirely feasible at present," Kremlev said.
"Given the current global circumstances, Moscow represents a suitable and secure venue for an event of this scale, with all the necessary infrastructure in place to deliver it at the very highest level.”
Rituraj Borkakoty is Sports Editor and has spent more than two decades writing on his sporting heroes. He also loves an underdog story, so if you have one, share it with him. He would love to bring it to life.
