Dmitry Bivol confirms next fight, but forced to vacate world title

Dmitry Bivol has confirmed that his next fight will be a trilogy bout with Artur Beterbiev, but as a result of this decision, Bivol has been forced to vacate his WBC title meaning that he is no longer the undisputed champion at 175lbs. 

Purse bids were set to be called on Tuesday for Bivol to face WBC interim champion David Benavidez. 

SALE: 30% off a US DAZN annual subscription at just $157.99 (from £229.99) to watch over 185 fights per year. That's just $0.85 per fight.

In a letter obtained by boxing journalist Dan Rafael, Bivol's attorney Pat English confirmed the decision to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman on Monday. 

The letter also confirmed that a third meeting with Beterbiev is indeed in the works and will likely take place later this year with this rivalry standing at one win apiece. 

With Bivol having vacated his WBC light heavyweight title, Benavidez has now been elevated to full champion and while he was disappointed about not facing Bivol, the American is looking to leave his mark on the light heavyweight division with the iconic green and gold belt. 

"Just got the news that Bivol decided to vacate his title, instead of fighting me. Now that makes me the WBC world champion at light heavyweight," Benavidez wrote on Instagram. 

"This is not the ideal way for me to become world champion but nevertheless I am now the WBC light heavyweight champion of the world, and I intend on putting [on] the best fights."

Benavidez's next outing could come against a British opponent in the form of Callum Smith who beat Joshua Buatsi on the undercard of Bivol's rematch with Beterbiev two months ago. 

Sign up to a DAZN subscription to watch the very best boxing

DAZN is the home of combat sports, broadcasting over 185 fights a year from the world's best promoters, including Matchroom, Queensberry, Golden Boy, Misfits, PFL, BKFC, GLORY and more.

Right now, until April 14, 2025, US customers can sign up now for a DAZN annual membership to watch over 185 fights a year for just $157.49 (reduced from $224.99). That's just $3.02 per week or $0.85 per fight night.

There is also the option to pay for an annual pass on a monthly basis at just  $13.99 per month (down from $19.99).

In the UK an annual fee is £119.99, that's just 64p per fight. 

There is also a Monthly Flex Pass option (cancel any time) at £24.99 / $29.99 per month. 

It is not just about fight night, a DAZN membership also includes access to documentaries and features, weekly magazine shows, live fight watchalongs, press conferences, weight-ins, open workouts, exclusive interviews and access to training camps, and podcasts and vodcasts.

For pricing in your country, more information and to sign up click here.