Dmitry Bivol, the reigning WBA light heavyweight champion, stands at a pivotal juncture in his boxing career. His promoter, Frank Smith, recently made headlines by expressing a strong preference for Bivol to pursue a rematch against Canelo Alvarez rather than face WBC mandatory challenger David Benavidez. This sentiment is not merely wishful thinking; it encapsulates various strategic dimensions, including financial implications and stylistic matchups.
When considering potential bouts, financial incentives often drive decisions in professional boxing. A rematch with Canelo Alvarez is not only a chance for redemption but also represents a lucrative opportunity for Bivol. The previous encounter on May 7, 2022, which resulted in a unanimous decision victory for Bivol, solidified his standing in the boxing world and showcased his ability to compete at the highest level. A second fight promises to attract significant pay-per-view numbers, elevating Bivol’s profile while also providing substantial financial rewards. For a boxer like Bivol, who has built an impressive record of 24 wins—20 of those by knockout—this financial windfall is enticing.
In stark contrast, a matchup with David Benavidez lacks the same monetary appeal. While Benavidez is a formidable fighter in his own right, the bout does not elicit the same level of excitement among fans and promoters. Smith’s focus on Alvarez underscores the marketing value associated with fighting a superstar of Canelo’s caliber, making it an appealing option for Bivol.
One cannot overlook the significance of size and style in boxing. At 6’1″, Bivol holds a considerable height advantage over Canelo, who stands at 5’8″. In their previous encounter, this size differential played a critical role in Bivol’s victory. Bivol’s reach and ability to control the pace afforded him a tactical advantage that is less pronounced against opponents of more similar dimensions, such as Benavidez. The latter is known for his aggressive style and ability to cut off the ring, presenting a potential nightmare for Bivol should they meet in the ring.
Moreover, Benavidez’s relentless pressure could prove problematic for Bivol. Unlike Beterbiev, whose pacing and stamina problems were clearly evident in their last fight, Benavidez is unlikely to relent, maintaining a fierce pace that may put Bivol at a disadvantage. In fact, many analysts believe that should these two contenders face each other, Bivol could struggle significantly more than he did against Beterbiev, who, despite his experience, presented a different style of challenge.
Looking ahead, Bivol seems likely to engage in a third bout against Artur Beterbiev, given that their rematch resulted in a contentious majority decision win for Bivol. However, as Smith indicated, the landscape of Bivol’s career appears crowded with potential threats and opportunities. After Bivol’s win over Beterbiev, he will face the pressure of a mandatory title defense against Benavidez, given his WBC titleholder responsibilities.
At the same time, the allure of a rematch with Canelo looms large, yet it remains uncertain whether Alvarez is even interested in a second showdown. Given Canelo’s own rigorous schedule and his aspirations to unify titles at super middleweight, Bivol may have to continue navigating his own career path without the immediate hope of another high-profile matchup against the iconic Mexican fighter.
As discussions continue around who Bivol should face next, the reality is clear: he is at a crossroads. While Frank Smith’s preference for a Canelo rematch is understandable from a financial and stylistic perspective, the looming threat of David Benavidez, coupled with the complexities of boxing politics, creates a challenging environment. Bivol has proven himself to be a remarkable athlete, and his next steps will significantly shape his legacy. Whether he faces Canelo or contends with Benavidez, the stakes remain high, and the outcomes unpredictable. Bivol’s ability to navigate this phase will be crucial in determining his standing in the world of boxing.
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