Controversial Verdict Overshadows Epic Beterbiev-Bivol Fight
The recent boxing match between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev for the absolute world champion title in the light heavyweight division has been hailed as one of the best fights in the last 20 years. However, the judges' controversial decision to award Beterbiev the victory has overshadowed the fight itself, leading to widespread calls for a rematch. Many in the boxing community, including Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Entertainment Affairs chairman Turki Al el-Sheikh, have expressed disbelief over the scoring, with Al el-Sheikh stating that he believes Bivol won by two rounds.
Promoter Eddie Hearn echoed these sentiments, calling for the referee who scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Beterbiev to be suspended permanently. Hearn emphasized the unfairness of the decision, stating, “I am outraged that after the hard work that Dmitry has dedicated his entire life to, he is not the undisputed champion today.” Despite the controversy, both fighters displayed respect for one another, with Beterbiev acknowledging Bivol's skills and expressing a willingness to face him again after a six-month period.
Reactions from the Boxing Community
Following the fight, Bivol maintained a dignified stance, refusing to blame the referees for the outcome. He stated, “I feel ashamed trying to explain how I didn’t win. I didn’t win. That’s all.” However, he later criticized the judging, suggesting that one referee should be permanently removed from officiating. Bivol's coach, Gennady Mashyanov, accused the referee of bias, referencing a previous controversial decision involving Vasily Lomachenko.
The boxing community has largely sided with Bivol, with former champions and analysts labeling the decision as a disgrace. Shakur Stevenson and Ryan Garcia both condemned the scoring, with Garcia comparing it to a robbery. In contrast, some experts defended the decision, arguing that the fight was too close to call definitively.
Despite the division in opinions, the event has sparked significant interest in a potential rematch, with many fans and analysts eager to see the two fighters face off again. As the boxing world continues to debate the outcome, both Bivol and Beterbiev have left a lasting impression with their performances, further solidifying their legacies in the sport.
