Bivol Vacates WBC Belt to Pursue Beterbiev Trilogy
Dmitry Bivol vacated the WBC light heavyweight title after defeating Artur Beterbiev by majority decision in their February 22, 2025 rematch. Bivol’s team said he wanted to pursue a third fight with Beterbiev rather than make the mandatory WBC defense.
A 1–1 rivalry
The rematch took place in Riyadh and gave Bivol the undisputed championship after the two had met for the first time in October 2024, when Beterbiev won by majority decision. Their 1–1 record created the sporting case for a trilogy, though at the time of the vacancy a third bout was still a plan, not a completed event.
The vacant title
The WBC belt became vacant following Bivol’s decision. His move changed the title picture at 175 pounds while leaving the proposed third fight as the central question for the division.
Related reporting and sources: Saudi Arabia · Boxing · Boxing · Combat Sports
