Overview

This Saturday night, the boxing world turns its eyes to the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where one of the most highly anticipated fights of the year unfolds: Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol.

The main event is set to kick off around 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+, where fans can witness two light heavyweight titans clash in what promises to be an electrifying bout. Beterbiev, known for his knockout power, holds the WBO, IBF, and WBC titles and boasts an undefeated record of 20 wins, with all of them coming via knockout. His last outing was a stunning performance where he stopped Callum Smith in the seventh round back in January.

On the other hand, Dmitry Bivol, who enters the ring with an impeccable record of 23-0 and holds the WBA light heavyweight title, is equally formidable. He most recently showcased his skills in June, knocking out Malik Zinad in the sixth round. The stakes couldn't be higher as both fighters look to solidify their legacies and demonstrate their dominance in one of boxing's most competitive divisions.

Round-by-Round Live Updates

Round 1: Both fighters begin cautiously, pawing with jabs to gauge distance. Beterbiev looks to assert his power early.

Round 2: Bivol finds his rhythm, landing combinations. Beterbiev responds with some powerful body shots.

Round 3: The intensity ramps up as Beterbiev starts to press forward, looking for a knockout.

Round 4: Bivol displays excellent footwork to avoid Beterbiev's advances, landing clean punches.

Round 5: Midway through the fight, fatigue appears to set in. Both fighters trade blows, neither willing to back down.

Round 6: The tide begins to turn as Beterbiev connects with a big right hand that wobbles Bivol.

Round 7: Bivol manages to recover and utilizes his defensive skills to evade further damage.

Round 8: An incredible exchange occurs with both fighters landing heavy shots. The crowd is on its feet!

Round 9: The action slows slightly as both boxers look to find an opening while conserving energy.

Round 10: Beterbiev presses Bivol against the ropes, landing significant blows as the tension in the arena escalates.

Round 11: Bivol rallies back, landing precise counter punches that keep Beterbiev at bay.

Round 12: The final round is a battle of grit and determination. Both fighters are leaving it all in the ring!

Stay tuned as we bring you live coverage and updates as the action unfolds in this monumental clash of champions! Who will emerge victorious in this thrilling contest? The boxing world holds its breath!