Dmitry Bivol’s promoter, Frank Smith, recently expressed a strong preference for a rematch against boxing powerhouse Canelo Alvarez over a title defense against David Benavidez. This interest in a rematch is intriguing for various reasons, primarily financial and competitive. From a financial standpoint, a rematch with Canelo is likely to be immensely lucrative, given the Mexican fighter’s massive fanbase and marketability. Additionally, Bivol seems to have a tactical advantage in size over Canelo; standing at 6’1”, he presents a daunting challenge for the 5’8” Alvarez, who faced a formidable Bivol in their initial encounter. Not only did Bivol secure a unanimous decision victory over Canelo in May 2022, but that fight showcased his capacity to exploit physical disparities effectively.
However, boxing is replete with complexities beyond mere size advantages. While a rematch against Canelo could provide the excitement of a high-stakes contest, it is worth noting that Canelo’s next fight is set for May 3, 2025, against IBF champion William Scull, followed by another encounter with Terence Crawford later that same year. Given this packed schedule, it remains uncertain if Canelo will prioritize a rematch with Bivol at all.
The Looming Threat of David Benavidez
On the other hand, if Bivol opts to defend his WBC title against Benavidez, the potential matchup represents a stylistic nightmare. Benavidez is renowned for his relentless fighting style, employing strong pressure tactics and impressive punching volume that could significantly disrupt Bivol’s game. As Smith noted, Benavidez excels at cutting off the ring and implementing pressure in a way that could cause serious difficulty for Bivol, whose previous encounter with Artur Beterbiev showcased a more methodical approach to fighting. Benavidez’s high-output style is a sharp contrast to Beterbiev’s, and if Bivol were to engage with him next, it could lead to a challenging night for the Russian boxer.
Given the demanding nature of boxing, Bivol’s team would need to weigh the risk of taking on a highly skilled contender like Benavidez against the alternative of pursuing a more favorable rematch with Canelo. Each option presents its own set of challenges and risks, making it incumbent upon Bivol to consider what is at stake not only for his legacy but also for his immediate career trajectory.
The Broader Landscape of Boxing
Amidst this maze of potential matchups, there are additional avenues for Bivol. The British boxing scene offers notable names like Callum Smith and Anthony Yarde as potential opponents, enriching the variety of options available to Bivol. However, the question remains whether these alternatives hold the same appeal as the high-stakes bout against Canelo or the challenge posed by Benavidez. The current state of boxing is such that fighters must continually adapt and realign their strategies to stay relevant, and Bivol appears to be squarely in that position.
Additionally, Smith articulated that Bivol has waited passionately for this moment, highlighting the fighter’s perseverance and commitment to the sport. Yet, expectation and reality rarely align seamlessly in boxing. With uncertainties bogging down the Canelo rematch possibilities and the inherent risks of a confrontation with Benavidez, Bivol’s path forward could very well hinge on his immediate decisions and the responses from his potential opponents.
Ultimately, the coming months will prove pivotal for Dmitry Bivol. Whether he pursues a high-reward rematch with Canelo Alvarez, faces a daunting title defense against David Benavidez, or explores other options within the boxing landscape, the consequences of his choices will echo throughout his career trajectory. The intricacies of matchmaking in boxing are as complex as the sport itself, requiring fighters and their promoters to navigate carefully while considering the implications for legacy, financial gain, and competitive integrity. For a champion like Bivol, the road ahead promises to be as challenging as it is exhilarating, and only time will tell how he charts his course.