One thing must be said. The Artur Beterbiev–Dmitry Bivol rematch remains one of those fights where everyone knows everything about the fighters. However, when it’s time to flag the winner, it remains an astonishingly puzzling task. Day after tomorrow, on Saturday, February 22, Beterbiev will try to fend off the first and perhaps most serious challenge to his undisputed regime. The match follows their first meeting that took place four months ago.

On October 12, in Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, the same place where ‘The Last Crescendo’ will play out, Beterbiev and Bivol went the distance to close the long-pending argument about the division’s undisputed championship. In a thrilling exchange that kept most of the spectators and viewers waiting with bated breath, the Russian-Canadian Olympian hit the mark with a majority decision. There are talks – if Bivol gets revenge for his first loss, then chances are the two could meet for a final trilogy/rubber match. So let’s check whether Beterbiev can repeat last year’s performance.

Predicting Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol: Who has better stats and record?

Until the time Beterbiev and Bivol clashed, the duo were riding on the back of unparalleled success. However, the fight on October 12 changed the equations. With 21 wins under his wing, Beterbiev remains an unbeaten warrior. In terms of sheer knockout prowess, he rules the sport with a staggering 95% KO rate.

Though never a hard hitter like his counterpart, Dmitry Bivol’s record seemingly took a hit with the momentous defeat. He commenced his professional journey roughly a year after Artur Beterbiev made his debut. But with 24 fights under his belt, the Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan-born fighter appears to be more experienced than Beterbiev. Thus he may leverage some advantage when they meet again.

Beterbiev and Bivol height, weight, reach comparison, and more

Standing 6 feet (183 centimeters) tall, Dmitry Bivol enjoys a narrow advantage over Artur Beterbiev, who records a height of 5 feet and 11.5 inches, or 182 centimeters. However, the Russian-Canadian champion seems to have a better reach. Against his 73 inches or 185 centimeters, Bivol registers a 72-inch (183 centimeters) reach.

The final weigh-ins of the fight are yet to take place. However, the results of their first fight might give some clues. Both Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol tipped the scales at 174.9 pounds during the ‘IV Crown Showdown.’

Final Prediction

The first meeting between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol ended in a majority decision for the former. With roughly -126 odds favoring him to win, many felt Bivol would fare better against the +104 underdog, Beterbiev.  It was such a closely fought battle that many considered it difficult to judge. Nevertheless, initially with some inhibitions, most accepted that Beterbiev came off better in the duel.

It’s estimated that Artur Beterbiev has a nearly 53% chance of winning the rematch. What may have turned the popular opinion in his favor appears to be the short duration. Thus, many foresee a familiar outcome on February 22.

Beterbiev may have turned 40. However, one should remember. Unlike in the past, when he used to follow the one-fight pattern, he is stepping into the ring within four months. He hasn’t reported any injuries either. So it’s natural to assume that he must be coming off the momentum he gathered during the last match.

The situation becomes altogether tough for Dmitry Bivol. During the last fight, it became apparent that he faltered when it came to delivering those pulverizing knockout punches. Despite his efforts, Beterbiev was barely shaken. Bivol understands that he has to close in to hurt Beterbiev. But that’s the area where the Russian-Canadian champion flourishes. Under no circumstances can Bivol let the match reach scorecards. But does he have the wherewithal to secure an early stoppage?

Our prediction: Artur Beterbiev secures yet another close-call victory.

What about you? Do you think Bivol will stage a huge upset?