Dmitry Bivol ignited a social media storm this week by posting that he’s “waiting” on Turki Alalshikh to decide his next move. Fans in social media took it as proof that Bivol – the undisputed light heavyweight champion – is following someone else’s script rather than defending against his WBC mandatory, David Benavidez. Many accuse Bivol of “selling out” to the money fights Turki wants, such as a trilogy against Artur Beterbiev, who is now 40 years old and arguably less dangerous than the younger Benavidez.
Strategically, it’s clear that Bivol sees less risk in facing a slower, more aging Beterbiev than the so-called “Mexican Monster.” Plus, Canelo Alvarez has shown no interest in meeting Beterbiev or Benavidez, but he has hinted at a rematch with Bivol somewhere down the line. After all, Canelo’s new four-fight deal with Turki could produce a future Alvarez-Bivol clash if both keep winning. The business angle is real – if Bivol defends his belts successfully against Beterbiev, it could set the stage for a massive showdown with Canelo in 2026 or beyond.
For fans, this raises an uncomfortable question about legacy. Does steering clear of Benavidez undercut Bivol’s status as undisputed? If he refuses the WBC mandatory, Bivol may be forced to vacate, which could tarnish his run at 175. Still, the potential payday for another Canelo fight – not to mention the trilogy with Beterbiev – makes it easy to see why Bivol would follow Turki’s lead. As always in boxing, a fighter’s path often splits between the biggest money bout or the toughest challenges, and Bivol is currently betting on the former.
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Image Credit: DAZN