The Trilogy That Wasn’t: Why Bivol vs. Beterbiev III Remains Elusive
There’s something deeply frustrating about a great rivalry left unfinished, especially in boxing. The sport thrives on trilogies—those rare, epic sagas that define careers and captivate fans. Ali vs. Frazier. Barrera vs. Morales. And now, Bivol vs. Beterbiev. Or rather, almost Bivol vs. Beterbiev. Because as it stands, the third chapter of this light heavyweight drama seems further away than ever.
The Fight That Should’ve Been
Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev have already given us two fights for the ages. Their first bout in October 2024 saw Beterbiev emerge as the undisputed champion in a razor-thin majority decision. The rematch in February 2025? Bivol reclaimed his throne in equally contentious fashion. These weren’t just fights; they were statements, each man proving he belonged in the conversation for pound-for-pound greatness.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast in their styles. Bivol, the slick, elusive technician. Beterbiev, the relentless pressure fighter with knockout power in every punch. Their chemistry in the ring is undeniable, yet here we are, 17 months after their last clash, still waiting for the trilogy.
The Money Factor: A Double-Edged Sword
The International Boxing Association (IBA) has been pushing hard to make this fight happen. According to IBA president Umar Kremlev, they’ve offered Bivol double what he made in the first two fights. Beterbiev, in a move that speaks volumes about his commitment, is reportedly willing to fight for free. Yet, Bivol’s team remains unmoved.
From my perspective, this isn’t just about money. Yes, the offer is substantial, but boxing is as much about legacy as it is about paychecks. Bivol, at 35, is at a crossroads. Does he prioritize the trilogy and cement his place in history, or does he chase other opportunities that might be less risky but equally lucrative?
One thing that immediately stands out is the timing. Bivol recently underwent back surgery, and his return fight against Michael Eifert felt like a tune-up rather than a true test. Now, he’s been ordered to face Callum Smith by the WBO. It’s a fight that makes sense on paper, but it also feels like a detour from the main event fans are craving.
The Psychology of Avoidance
What many people don’t realize is that boxing is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Bivol’s decision to vacate his WBC title rather than face David Benavidez last year raised eyebrows. Was it a strategic move to avoid a dangerous opponent, or a calculated step to preserve his health for bigger fights?
If you take a step back and think about it, Bivol’s reluctance to commit to Beterbiev III could be rooted in fear—not of losing, but of what another grueling fight might cost him. Beterbiev’s style is punishing, and at 41, he’s still a force of nature. For Bivol, the risk might outweigh the reward, especially when there are other, less punishing paths to explore.
The Broader Implications
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean for boxing when a fight of this magnitude can’t get made? In an era where fans are increasingly frustrated with promotional politics and fighter avoidance, Bivol vs. Beterbiev III feels like a litmus test for the sport’s priorities.
A detail that I find especially interesting is Kremlev’s insistence that the fight could be staged for 100,000 fans in Russia. It’s a bold statement, but it also highlights the global appeal of this matchup. This isn’t just a fight for the boxing diehards; it’s an event that could transcend the sport.
The Future: What’s Next?
Personally, I think the trilogy will happen eventually. The demand is too great, the stakes too high. But the delay is telling. It suggests that boxing’s current landscape is more fragmented than ever, with fighters and their teams prioritizing short-term gains over long-term legacies.
What this really suggests is that the sport needs a reset. A return to the days when rivalries were nurtured, not abandoned. Bivol and Beterbiev owe it to themselves and to the fans to complete their story. Until they do, their legacies will always carry an asterisk.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on this saga, I’m reminded of why boxing captivates us. It’s not just about the punches; it’s about the stories, the rivalries, the moments that define careers. Bivol vs. Beterbiev III has all the makings of a classic, but it’s up to the fighters and their teams to make it happen.
In my opinion, the world is waiting. The question is: Will they deliver?
