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—think Ali vs. Frazier, Gatti vs. Ward, or Pacquiao vs. Márquez. These series define eras, settle debates, and give fans closure. Yet, here we are, staring at the specter of Bivol vs. Beterbiev III, a fight that seems to slip further away with each passing month. Personally, I think this isn’t just about two fighters; it’s about the broader dynamics of boxing, where egos, money, and timing collide in ways that often defy logic.
The Rivalry That Could Have Been
Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev have already given us two fights that will be remembered for years. Their first bout in October 2024 was a masterclass in strategy, with Beterbiev emerging as the undisputed light heavyweight champion. The rematch in February 2025 was Bivol’s redemption, reclaiming the title in a fight that showcased both men’s resilience. What makes this particularly fascinating is how these two fights set the stage for a trilogy that, on paper, should have been inevitable. Yet, here we are, 17 months later, with Bivol seemingly uninterested in closing the chapter.
The Money Factor: A Double-Edged Sword
The International Boxing Association (IBA) has thrown everything but the kitchen sink at Bivol to make this fight happen. According to IBA president Umar Kremlev, Bivol was offered 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. From my perspective, this isn’t just about money—it’s about pride, legacy, and the unspoken rules of the sport. Bivol’s refusal to take the fight raises a deeper question: Is he avoiding Beterbiev, or is he simply playing the long game?
One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between Bivol’s actions and his words. After beating Beterbiev, he vacated his WBC title rather than face mandatory challenger David Benavidez. Now, he’s been ordered to fight Callum Smith by the WBO. What this really suggests is that Bivol is cherry-picking fights, a strategy that, while smart for his career, undermines the spirit of competition. Boxing fans don’t just want to see fighters win; they want to see them tested.
The Role of Teams and Politics
Kremlev’s frustration is palpable. He’s done everything in his power to make this fight happen, even offering to stage it in Russia for 100,000 fans. But Bivol’s team seems to be holding out for something more—or perhaps something different. What many people don’t realize is that in boxing, the fighter’s team often has more control than the fighter himself. Managers, promoters, and advisors can dictate a career’s trajectory, sometimes at the expense of what the fans want.
This raises another point: the role of organizations like the IBA in shaping the sport. Kremlev’s involvement is commendable, but it also highlights the fragmented nature of boxing. With multiple sanctioning bodies and promoters vying for control, fights like Bivol vs. Beterbiev III often get lost in the shuffle. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about one fight—it’s about the systemic issues that plague boxing.
Legacy vs. Longevity
Bivol is 35, and Beterbiev is 41. In boxing years, that’s a significant difference. Bivol still has time to build his legacy, while Beterbiev is in the twilight of his career. A detail that I find especially interesting is how age might be influencing Bivol’s decision-making. Is he waiting for Beterbiev to retire naturally, avoiding the risk of another loss? Or is he simply prioritizing easier fights to pad his record?
In my opinion, Bivol is missing a golden opportunity. Trilogies are rare, and they define careers. Ali vs. Frazier III wasn’t just a fight; it was a cultural moment. Bivol vs. Beterbiev III could have been that kind of moment, but instead, it’s becoming a footnote in boxing history.
The Bigger Picture
What this saga really highlights is the tension between what fighters want and what fans deserve. Boxing is a sport built on rivalries, yet those rivalries are often sacrificed for financial gain or career preservation. Bivol’s reluctance to face Beterbiev isn’t just about him—it’s about a trend in boxing where the biggest fights rarely happen.
Personally, I think the sport needs to rethink its priorities. Fans shouldn’t have to beg for the fights they want. Organizations like the IBA are doing their part, but it’s not enough. Until boxing finds a way to align the interests of fighters, promoters, and fans, we’ll continue to miss out on the fights that matter most.
Final Thoughts
As it stands, Bivol vs. Beterbiev III feels like a missed opportunity—a fight that could have been legendary but will likely remain a what-if. Bivol may have his reasons, but from my perspective, he’s leaving money, legacy, and fan goodwill on the table. Boxing is a sport of courage, but sometimes, the bravest decisions are made outside the ring. Here’s hoping that one day, Bivol and Beterbiev will give us the fight we’ve all been waiting for. Until then, we’re left to wonder what could have been.
