Artur Beterbiev’s recent triumph in Riyadh, where he secured the undisputed light heavyweight title by defeating Dmitry Bivol, has set the stage for exciting possibilities in boxing. Under the guidance of his trainer, John Scully, Beterbiev, who boasts an impressive record of 21-0 with 20 knockouts, now faces the challenge of selecting his next opponent. While a rematch with Bivol is on the table, Scully points to two compelling alternatives: David Benavidez and Joshua Buatsi.
Scully’s perspective is particularly intriguing; he asserts that both Benavidez and Buatsi present compelling battles that could capture boxing fans’ excitement far more than a rematch with Bivol, whose previous strategy involved a more cautious, tactical approach. Scully indicates a clear preference for fighters that are willing to engage aggressively rather than outbox from a distance, signaling a shift towards matches that promise a more explosive showdown.
Despite Bivol’s credentials as a formidable opponent—his record stands at 23-1 with 12 KOs—the consensus among observers and Scully suggests that the boxing world is eager for a different kind of fight. Scully emphasizes the less-than-thrilling display from Bivol during their first bout, suggesting that his strategy involved “running around” rather than engaging in a slugfest. The bout concluded in a majority decision, with Beterbiev taking the lead in the middle and later rounds. This lack of engagement left both fans and analysts wanting more and concerned about the appeal of a rematch in the context of entertainment value.
What Beterbiev needs now is an opponent that can sustain the fighting spirit and resilience demanded at the championship level. While Bivol may have the technical skills, his fight style could undermine the thrilling atmosphere that boxing fans crave.
On the other hand, David Benavidez and Joshua Buatsi are not just capable opponents; they bring unique attributes that make them ideal candidates for Beterbiev’s next fight. Benavidez, with a record of 29-0 and 24 KOs, is known for his aggressive style and power. The prospect of Beterbiev squared off against him promises a genuine “nuclear war” encounter, as described by Scully. Benavidez’s preparedness to engage at close range aligns perfectly with Beterbiev’s strength as a power puncher.
Joshua Buatsi adds another layer of excitement. As a dynamic and skilled fighter, Buatsi has proven he can deliver knockouts and is not afraid to trade blows. A match against Beterbiev would attract fans looking for an adrenaline-fueled spectacle rather than a chess match, making it a potentially explosive encounter.
As attention turns to Beterbiev’s next moves, the light heavyweight division appears ripe with excitement. The absence of a need to transition to cruiserweight—where Scully admits a lack of familiarity with the competitors—reinforces the significance of exploring the current talent pool at 175 lbs.
It’s clear that the decision rests not just with Beterbiev or Scully but also with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, who holds the jurisdiction to decide Beterbiev’s next opponent. Should he favor a rematch with Bivol, the fight could happen in 2025, but an endorsement of matchups with Benavidez or Buatsi would inevitably generate more buzz and draw greater public interest owing to their aggressive styles.
With the recent victory empowering Beterbiev’s position as a champion, the anticipation builds for his next fight, a critical juncture that will define his legacy in the boxing world. The looming choices between Bivol, Benavidez, and Buatsi not only highlight the versatile talent in the light heavyweight division but also underscore the enduring allure of boxing itself—where each bout holds the promise of redefining champions and stirring emotions among fans worldwide. As Artur Beterbiev prepares for his next chapter, boxing enthusiasts await eagerly—the countdown to a possibly monumental showdown has only just begun.