Artur Beterbiev says he wants David Benavidez — but every little thing about his current positioning suggests he’s already locked right into a third fight with Dmitry Bivol, whether fans want it or not.
Beterbiev reiterated this week that his focus stays on completing a trilogy with Bivol, even confirming that a lucrative, multi-million-dollar offer for a 3rd bout in Russia was recently turned down by the unified light heavyweight champion. Despite that rejection, Beterbiev continues to be pushing hard for the fight to happen in Moscow.
That tells you every little thing.
Benavidez is the more explosive, more fan-friendly option — especially within the U.S. market — but he’s also the more dangerous one stylistically. Unlike Bivol’s movement-heavy, control-first approach, Benavidez would meet Beterbiev within the pocket and force exchanges. That form of fight sells, nevertheless it also carries real risk for a 40-year-old puncher whose margin for error is narrowing.
“Yes, after all I would like to fight,” Beterbiev said to the media when asked about Benavidez, praising his recent win over Anthony Yarde. The words sound accommodating, however the actions don’t match. With Benavidez expected to maneuver as much as cruiserweight as early as May, the window for that fight is closing fast — and Beterbiev knows it.
As an alternative, the trilogy path offers something safer: familiarity, financing, and political backing. Turki Alalshikh’s involvement has effectively kept the Bivol series alive, whilst sections of the fan base grow restless with the matchup. Without that financial muscle, it’s hard to consider a second — let alone third — fight would have materialized.
Beterbiev also dismissed talk of moving up in weight, and realistically so. A jump to heavyweight at this stage could be symbolic greater than competitive, and even cruiserweight would present size problems.
For now, the direction is evident. Beterbiev may discuss options, but his profession is being funneled toward one consequence: Bivol III, wherever and at any time when it finally happens.
The actual query isn’t whether Beterbiev wants Benavidez.
It’s whether the game will ever force him to take that risk before the moment passes.
Last Updated on 12/12/2025