Dmitry Bivol teases move to cruiserweight
In a recent interview, unified light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol outlined his intentions to move up to the cruiserweight division.
Bivol has had a long career in the light heavyweight division and became the undisputed champion in February 2025, defeating Artur Beterbiev in their second fight.
Among Bivol’s wins are Canelo Álvarez, Malik Zinad, Joe Smith Jr. and Gilberto Ramírez
Bivol has been inactive for a year due to back surgery, but he is anticipated to make a comeback later this year.
The IBF has designated Michael Eifert as Bivol’s mandatory opponent, and negotiations are currently in progress, with a fight expected in May.
While speaking to the media at the Ring Magazine awards, Bivol shared some of his targets for the year.
He stated his plans: defend the light heavyweight belt, rematch Canelo or Beterbiev, and then pursue a cruiserweight world title.
Should Bivol move up, we might finally see the much anticipated Bivol-Benavidez bout that fans have been hoping for at light heavyweight.
David Benavidez who is the WBC and WBA (Regular) light heavyweight champion, is also aiming for cruiserweight titles and will fight Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez on May 2nd.
The top of the cruiserweight division also includes Zuffa Boxing’s Jai Opetaia (IBF and Ring Magazine cruiserweight champion) and Noel Mikaelian holds (WBC champion).