Matchroom Boxing recently revealed the full undercard for the upcoming Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry light heavyweight clash scheduled for October 12th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event, which will be broadcast live on DAZN PPV, has stirred up mixed reactions among boxing fans and critics alike.
WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson finds himself in an unusual undercard position, facing off against Joe Cordina as the chief support bout. Stevenson, who holds an impressive record of 22-0 with 10 knockouts, has seen a decline in his popularity among fans due to lackluster performances in his last two fights. His placement on the undercard has raised eyebrows, with many questioning promoter Eddie Hearn’s decision to pair him with Cordina instead of more formidable opponents like Raymond Muratalla or Edwin De Los Santos.
Amidst the lackluster lineup, the heavyweight rematch between Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke stands out as the most anticipated fight on the undercard. This clash promises to deliver excitement and entertainment to the audience, offering a much-needed spark to an otherwise unremarkable undercard.
The remaining undercard fights feature a series of showcase matchups where well-known fighters are expected to dominate their respective opponents. While these fights may entertain casual viewers, they lack the competitive edge and intensity that true boxing fans crave. The inclusion of more evenly matched contests would have added depth and excitement to the undercard lineup.
Middleweight Chris Eubank Jr’s bout against Kamil Szeremeta has drawn criticism for its lack of competitiveness. Eubank Jr, a seasoned veteran in the sport, is facing a non-contender that does little to elevate his status or career trajectory. As Eubank Jr continues to call out top-tier opponents like Canelo Alvarez, his choice of opponents on the undercard remains underwhelming and uninspiring.
While the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry main event promises fireworks and excitement, the undercard lineup for the October 12th event in Riyadh leaves much to be desired. With a mix of showcase fights and underwhelming matchups, the undercard fails to capture the attention and interest of boxing fans. As the sport continues to evolve and grow, it is essential for promoters and organizers to prioritize the quality and competitiveness of undercard fights to ensure a memorable and captivating viewing experience for all.