Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2: Weigh-In Sparks Anticipation for a Pivotal Night in Boxing

The boxing world is bracing for fireworks as Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol prepare to clash for the second time in their highly anticipated rematch. Dubbed “The Last Crescendo,” the event promises a night of high-stakes action with seven title fights on the card. Friday’s weigh-in at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, solidified the lineup, ensuring that all eyes will be glued to Saturday’s pay-per-view broadcast.

Beterbiev and Bivol: A Rivalry Renewed

Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs) and Dmitry Bivol (21-1, 11 KOs) are set to headline the evening in a battle for the undisputed light heavyweight championship. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as Beterbiev aims to defend his perfect record and retain his titles after narrowly defeating Bivol by majority decision just 133 days ago. Both fighters made weight without issue—Beterbiev at the division limit of 175 pounds and Bivol slightly lighter at 174.1 pounds—setting the stage for another epic showdown.

⚖️ Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol weigh-in results:

🇷🇺 Artur Beterbiev – 175lbs

🇷🇺 Dmitry Bivol – 174.1lbs

✅ All set for the undisputed light-heavyweight title fight tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/yH4LBPtaNj

— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) February 21, 2025

Their first encounter was a tactical war that showcased Beterbiev’s relentless pressure and power against Bivol’s technical precision and movement. While Beterbiev emerged victorious, many fans and analysts believe the rematch could go either way. The final face-off following the weigh-in was intense but respectful, with both men exuding quiet confidence.

Adding to the intrigue is the venue itself. Originally slated for a larger arena, the event was moved to a smaller setting in Riyadh, creating an intimate yet electric atmosphere for what could be one of the year’s most memorable fights.

A Stacked Undercard with Late Replacements

While Beterbiev vs. Bivol is undoubtedly the main attraction, the undercard boasts an impressive array of talent across multiple weight classes. However, fight week wasn’t without its share of drama, as illnesses forced late changes to two key matchups.

Joseph Parker vs. Martin Bakole: Heavyweight contender Joseph Parker (35-2, 23 KOs) will face Martin Bakole (21-1, 16 KOs) for the interim WBO heavyweight title. Bakole stepped in as a replacement for Daniel Dubois, who withdrew due to illness. Parker weighed in at 267 pounds, while Bakole did not need to weigh in as a heavyweight.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Josh Padley: WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson (22-0, 10 KOs) will defend his title against Josh Padley (15-0, 4 KOs), who replaced Floyd Schofield after Schofield was hospitalized with an illness. Both fighters made weight comfortably, with Stevenson at 134.1 pounds and Padley at 134 pounds.

Additional highlights include Carlos Adames defending his WBC middleweight title against Hamzah Sheeraz, Vergil Ortiz Jr. taking on Israil Madrimov for the interim WBC junior middleweight belt, and Zhilei Zhang battling Agit Kabayel for the WBC interim heavyweight title. Joshua Buatsi and Callum Smith round out the card in a light heavyweight clash for Buatsi’s interim WBO title.

With seven championships on the line and a main event featuring two of boxing’s premier light heavyweights, “The Last Crescendo” is shaping up to be an unforgettable night. The weigh-in confirmed that all fighters are ready to deliver their best performances under the bright lights of Riyadh.

For fans tuning in on DAZN PPV or PPV.com at 11 AM EST on Saturday, this event promises drama, excitement, and perhaps even history in the making. Whether it’s Beterbiev asserting his dominance or Bivol exacting revenge, one thing is certain: boxing fans are in for a treat.