Dmitry Bivol, an astute and talented light heavyweight boxer, finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career following his prominent victories. As discussions swirl around potential future fights, notably a rematch with the boxing icon Canelo Alvarez and a mandatory title defense against David Benavidez, the intricacies of these match-ups reveal not only opportunities but challenges that could determine the trajectory of Bivol’s career.
Frank Smith, Bivol’s promoter, has expressed a clear preference for a rematch against Canelo Alvarez over a bout with the current WBC mandatory David Benavidez. The rationale for this inclination goes beyond mere popularity; it is also deeply rooted in the financial implications and tactical advantages. The potential rematch against Canelo promises a massive payday while also providing a more favorable matchup for Bivol, who, at 6’1″, holds a notable size advantage over the 5’8″ Alvarez. In their initial encounter, Bivol’s superior reach and height allowed him to combat Canelo effectively, leading to a unanimous decision victory—one that solidified Bivol’s standing in the boxing world.
Conversely, Benavidez presents a different challenge altogether. Known for his aggressive style and exceptional conditioning, the WBC mandatory is not merely another contender; he represents a daunting style mismatch for Bivol. With his penchant for cutting off the ring and a relentless offensive approach, Benavidez would likely pose a significant threat. Therefore, Smith’s thoughts on prioritizing the Canelo rematch echo the sentiments of many boxing pundits who see it as a more strategically viable option.
Boxing, while a sport, is also a business. The financial implications of fights are often as critical as the athletic ones. A rematch against Canelo not only stands to benefit Bivol financially but also cements his status as a box office draw. The excitement generated by a potential clash with Canelo could reignite fan interest, drawing large audiences and pay-per-view buys that would not be matched in a fight against Benavidez, despite the latter being a formidable opponent.
Additionally, Bivol’s promoter is strategically navigating this landscape, understanding that enticing Canelo back to the ring might mean positioning Bivol as a legitimate contender for further title shots. This maneuvering is crucial given the competitive nature of the light heavyweight division and Bivol’s aspirations to capture additional titles and accolades.
While the allure of a high-stakes rematch with Canelo captivates fans and promoters alike, there looms the reality of Bivol facing Benavidez. The latter’s style is particularly troublesome for Bivol, who thrives when he can maintain control over the distance and tempo of fights. Benavidez’s volume punching and relentless pursuit could overwhelm Bivol, presenting a scenario in which Bivol struggles to implement his game plan, reminiscent of Bivol’s recent encounter with Artur Beterbiev.
Should Bivol choose to accept the challenge of defending his WBC title against Benavidez post his potential rematch prep, the risk of a loss could cloud the desirability of a future bout with Canelo. It’s a delicate balance for Bivol, where each decision must weigh both immediate rewards and long-term consequences.
As Bivol stands on the cusp of making a significant decision about his next fight, the world of boxing watches closely. Promoter Frank Smith’s remarks hint that there are multiple paths available—not just a rematch with Canelo or a title defense against Benavidez, but also potential bouts against other British fighters, like Callum Smith or Anthony Yarde.
Ultimately, the best course of action for Bivol remains shrouded in speculation. The path he chooses will not only define his immediate future but could also pave the way for his legacy in the sport. Whether he opts for the immediate financial windfall of a Canelo rematch or the risk-laden defense against Benavidez, the decision will echo through his career for years to come. The boxing community remains eager to witness this chapter unfold, with Bivol poised to either reinforce his status as a champion or navigate the complexities that come with the high-stakes nature of professional boxing.