Undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev is a fighter who rose from humble beginnings to achieve greatness in boxing. The undefeated 40-year-old is set to face former WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol on February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, headlining a stacked card.

Their first encounter was an all-out war, with both fighters trading blows in a relentless battle before Beterbiev emerged victorious. As the highly anticipated rematch draws closer, interest in Beterbiev’s journey—particularly his origins and deep-rooted connection to Russia—is steadily growing. But does he identify as a Russian? 

Where is Artur Beterbiev from? Ethnicity

Artur Beterbiev was born on January 21, 1985, in Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia. While his birthplace is in Dagestan, Beterbiev has clarified in interviews that his ethnicity is actually Checheyan. In a conversation on the YouTube channel Obzor Press, he addressed a common misconception about his background. A journalist in London referred to him as Dagestani by nationality, to which Beterbiev firmly responded, “I am a Chechen, not Dagestan.” He explained that while fighters like Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov are Dagestani, his ethnicity is distinct.

Despite his Russian nationality and Chechen heritage, Beterbiev has made Montreal, Canada, his home since transitioning to the professional ranks. He relocated there after an impressive amateur career that included victories at the 2006 European Championships and the 2009 World Championships. Since turning pro in 2013, Beterbiev has dominated the light heavyweight division, becoming the WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO champion.

What flag does Artur Beterbiev carry? Nationality

Artur Beterbiev, the reigning undisputed light heavyweight champion, proudly carries the flag of Canada in professional boxing. Although born in Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia, Beterbiev relocated to Montreal in 2013 to launch his pro career under trainer Marc Ramsay. His transition to Canada was driven by the opportunity to work with Ramsay and establish himself in the North American boxing scene.

Despite his Russian roots, Beterbiev became a Canadian citizen and represents Canada in professional fights. However, his ties to his birthplace remain strong. As an amateur, he competed for Russia, winning gold at the 2009 World Championships and reaching the quarterfinals at the 2012 Olympics.

Beterbiev’s dual identity reflects his journey, which is rooted in Russian boxing traditions yet shaped by his years in Canada. He has built a life in Montreal, where he lives with his mother, wife and children, and has embraced Canadian culture while maintaining his Chechen heritage.

Arthur Beterbiev seems to have roots in several cultures worldwide. Despite being born in Russia, the undefeated boxer shares a deep connection with his Chechen heritage. What do you think about his background?