The International Boxing Association (IBA) has been actively pursuing a trilogy fight between the light heavyweight champions, Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev, but the negotiations have hit a stalemate. Despite the IBA's efforts, including offering Bivol a substantial double of his previous earnings, the boxer has consistently declined, leaving the association in a state of frustration.
The first two fights between Bivol and Beterbiev were fiercely contested, with Beterbiev emerging victorious in the first encounter, earning him the undisputed light heavyweight championship. The rematch, held in Saudi Arabia, saw Bivol reclaim the title. However, since then, a series of events has prevented a third fight from materializing.
IBA President Umar Kremlev expressed his disappointment, stating that both Bivol and his team are not accepting the offer, despite the association's efforts to secure the fight. Kremlev revealed that the offer was significantly more lucrative than the previous fights, with Beterbiev willing to fight for free. This suggests a potential power imbalance in the negotiation, with Beterbiev's team seemingly more willing to compromise.
Bivol's recent actions have further complicated matters. After winning the rematch, he vacated his WBC title instead of facing the mandatory challenger, David Benavidez. This decision has raised questions about Bivol's commitment to the sport and his willingness to engage in the necessary fights to maintain his championship status.
Additionally, Bivol's recent back surgery and subsequent return to the ring in May, followed by a tune-up fight against Michael Eifert, have raised concerns about his readiness for a trilogy fight. The IBF has ordered Bivol to face Callum Smith, with a deadline of July 26th to agree to the terms, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding the Bivol-Beterbiev trilogy.
Kremlev believes that Bivol is likely to proceed with the Smith fight, while Beterbiev will take on another opponent. However, he remains committed to pursuing the trilogy, emphasizing the importance of the fight for the boxing world. He suggests that Bivol should reciprocate Beterbiev's rematch offer, creating a sense of fairness and respect in the sport.
The situation highlights the complexities of boxing negotiations, where personal interests, financial incentives, and championship aspirations intertwine. The IBA's persistence in securing the trilogy fight is a testament to the association's dedication to the sport, but the outcome remains uncertain, leaving fans and boxing enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the next development in this intriguing saga.
