Eddie Hearn says Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol rematch is on following Turki Alalshkih’s comments
Eddie Hearn has shared a positive update on the potential Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol rematch, following their first fight on Oct.12. It was arguably the most anticipated boxing clash of the year, with the undisputed light heavyweight crown on the line.
Both fighters entered the ring undefeated, with Beterbiev maintaining his perfect record which he extended to 21-0, albeit in controversial fashion. Bivol suffered his first professional loss, and his record now stands at 23-1.
The 39-year old walked away victorious via split-decision, a result which has created debate amongst boxing fans and pundits. Many felt that the former undefeated fighter deserved to have his hand raised, and Bivol fans will no doubt rejoice at Hearn's recent update regarding a rematch.
With 'His Excellency' Turki Alalshikh being instrumental in the first clash between Beterbiev and Bivol taking place, the Matchroom Boxing chairman revealed discussions with the Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority during a recent interview with Fight Hub TV.
The promoter said:
"His Excellency told us that the rematch is on. So we'll wait for final confirmation of that."
Catch Eddie Hearn's comments below (6:55):
Eddie Hearn's frustration with Artur Beterbiev-Dmitry Bivol result boiled over during press conference
Eddie Hearn has worked with Dmitry Bivol for over five years, and following the Russian's first-ever defeat, the Matchroom Boxing chairman could not contain his frustration.
Bivol took on Artur Beterbiev on Oct. 12 in one of the biggest fights of the 21st century. The bout was a back-and-forth affair, with both pugilists landing powerful punches throughout.
But the 38-year-old's level of activity in the ring saw the result swing his way in a controversial split decision, 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112 on the judges' scorecards.
Following the event, Hearn and Bivol appeared at the post-fight press conference, where the promoter said:
"I don't want to disrespect Artur Beterbiev and his team because they're just incredible fighters. But I find it sickening that after a lifetime of hard work Dmitry Bivol is not the undisputed champion tonight. He won that fight, I struggled to find anybody on our row, the row behind, the TV rows who didn't score the fight for Dmitry Bivol."
He continued:
"To find a judge who gave that fight 116-112, and give Dmitry four rounds in that fight, this judge should never work in the sport again."
Catch Eddie Hearn's comments below (0:25):