The upcoming rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol is being relegated to the co-main event spot for the massive February 22nd boxing card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, much to the outrage of fans and pundits alike. Instead, IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois will headline the event with his fight against Joseph Parker, sparking criticism due to the less compelling nature of the matchup.
While Dubois’ clash with the defensive-minded Parker lacks the excitement of other high-profile bouts, it is Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 that fans are eagerly anticipating. The two fighters previously squared off on October 12th in an electrifying contest that kept viewers on the edge of their seats throughout, making their rematch one of the most anticipated events in the sport.
“I’d riot if Bivol-Beterbiev is not the main event,” said boxing commentator Ade Oladipo, speaking on the Ariel Helwani YouTube channel. “I would pull myself from the card if Beterbiev vs. Bivol is not the main event. It’s the two best light heavyweights in the world. The only fight that could be bigger than Beterbiev-Bivol and justify moving it to co-main would be Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk.”
The decision to place Dubois vs. Parker as the headliner has drawn backlash, as fans argue that the Beterbiev-Bivol rematch is clearly the more thrilling and significant fight. With the boxing community buzzing about the potential clash between the two light heavyweight champions, many feel that this fight deserves top billing, and its relegation to co-main status has left them frustrated.
As the February 22nd card draws nearer, fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see if the rematch between Beterbiev and Bivol can reclaim its rightful position as the main event of the night.
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