After the defeat against Bivol: Artur Beterbiev wants to box his way back into the title race with a win over Deon Nicholson on November 22.
Artur Beterbiev, the former undisputed light heavyweight world champion, is back in the ring after a nine-month break. On November 22, the 40-year-old will meet the hard-hitting US boxer Deon Nicholson as part of the fourth ring card. For Beterbiev, the duel marks the start of his “Road to Redemption” – the way back to the top after his defeat to Dmitry Bivol in February. The planned trilogy against Bivol came to nothing after the latter relinquished his WBC crown and now has to fight IBF mandatory opponent Michael Eifert. Meanwhile, Beterbiev is preparing in Canada for the fight that should help him get back into title contention.
Nicholson (22-1, 18 knockouts) enters the ring with eight wins in a row – five of them by knockout. The 34-year-old from Alabama is considered a dangerous puncher, but suffered his only defeat in 2021 by knockout against Efetobor Apochi. In the co-main event in Riyadh, David Benavidez’ will defend his titles against Anthony Yarde – the fight card could also include fights from Callum Smith and David Morrell. Beterbiev (21-1, 20 knockouts) must win to keep his hopes of a third clash with Bivol alive.
Text by Robin Josten
You can find stories, interviews and more in the new BOXSPORT issue – now in the BOXSPORT app! Click here to subscribe!