Artur Beterbiev‘s aggression did its job. The Russian-Canadian fighter stood tall as he fended off Dmitry Bivol‘s attempt to snatch his titles. He left the Kingdom Arena as the undisputed king at 175 and is currently busy with the celebration festivities. But it won’t be long before he starts mulling over his next move and next opponent.

Beterbiev, 39, might have to consider multiple things before taking a call on his next fight. Whether he wants to continue fighting for a couple of years to quench his zeal to fight, or should he look for another legacy fight and bow out because of his age and fitness concerns? He might have a tough decision but one fight makes sense the most.

Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol: running it back

Their fight had it all. Exciting action, high stakes, and a very close contest. The viewers and pros enjoyed the constant action and how both boxers tried to negate each other’s tools. However, the judges’ scorecard left a trail of controversy which dented the fight.

Both boxers have expressed their desire to put pen to rematch papers and it’s a bout that the fans would like to watch again. In addition, the fight has enough traction still to make it a blockbuster and it’s the most logical fight to make right now. Be it ticking the checkboxes of the business side of things or an interesting storyline. Well, it is until someone from a division below decides to step up, again.

Canelo Alvarez: a huge payout

Canelo Alvarez is no longer the undisputed champion at 168. While there are questions surrounding his choice of opponents, one thing is clear. He wants his competitors to come forward and exchange and not exhaust their tanks between the rounds. The Mexican champion wants to put on a show and a fight with Beterbiev would benefit all the parties.

Alvarez, 34, will have the chance to script history to become undisputed in another division, where the champion’s power has put fighters into dust. That’s not it. A victory over Beterbiev will also pluck out the thorn of a loss to Bivol. For Beterbiev, it will turn out to be the biggest payday of his career, and irrespective of the result, he could have a comfortable retirement. But will the undisputed champion take the risk or will he prefer a smooth sailing?

David Benavidez: fulfilling the mandate

David Benavidez is the WBC light heavyweight mandatory and the first in line to challenge Beterbiev’s reign at the top. Benavidez, 27, brings a style to the table, that is familiar to Beterbiev and the latter would not hesitate to give him a chance to go for the glory. Why is it so?

First, ‘The Mexican Monster’ is still relatively new to the division and has to adjust to the vagaries of it. Secondly, he no longer will carry the size or power advantage when hypothetically matched with Beterbiev. Therefore, stylistically, it’s a relatively easier fight for him. However, it all depends on how the stars and promoters align, as Benavidez is set to fight on a December card and still finding footing at 175. In that case, Beterbiev could simply look at the rankings or some stars.

Wildcard fights for Artur Beterbiev: Joshua Buatsi and Jai Opetaia

Joshua Buatsi has all the markings for a future world champion and an interim WBO strap on him also suggests the same. The British boxer is also undefeated and boasts of an impressive fan-friendly style. An offer to fight at Wembley could tempt Beterbiev and the British fans will flock to witness the mouthwatering contest. But what if Beterbiev picks a different division altogether?

Some rumors had surfaced ahead of Beterbiev vs. Bivol that the winner could step up and challenge for Jai Opetaia. Beterbiev could easily make the weight and has the frame to add more muscles and easily make the weight. It all depends on where he sees himself next and whether he wants a new challenge. The Australian boxer has already admitted his willingness to take the super fight if it comes his way. But the chances of it happening realistically might be low.

What do you make of this potential list of suitors for Artur Beterbiev? Who do you think he should fight next? Let us know in the comments below.