Dmitry Bivol will return to the ring on May 30 against Michael Eifert at UGMK Arena in Ekaterinburg, Russia, as he fulfills his IBF mandatory obligation following more than a year of inactivity.
Bivol, who holds The Ring, WBA, WBO and IBF titles, confirmed his comeback with a clear message: “On May 30, I’ll be stepping into the ring… I promise to put on a beautiful and exciting fight.”
The 35-year-old has been out of action since avenging his only career defeat against Artur Beterbiev in February 2025, a victory that crowned him undisputed champion before later developments in the division reshaped the title picture.
Plans for a trilogy with Beterbiev were discussed but ultimately stalled after Bivol underwent back surgery. Rather than pursue a bigger-name return, he opted to face Eifert to satisfy IBF requirements and avoid being stripped.
Eifert (13-1, 5 KOs) has been waiting for a title opportunity since defeating former champion Jean Pascal in March 2023. His activity since then has been limited, with just one additional fight - a win over Carlos Eduardo Jimenez in August 2024 - making this a significant step up on the biggest stage of his career.
Despite the mandatory defense, Bivol’s ambitions remain focused on major fights. He has expressed interest in facing David Benavidez, who was elevated to WBC champion after Bivol vacated the belt, as well as a rematch with Saul Alvarez, whom he defeated by unanimous decision in 2022.
