The upcoming October 12th Riyadh Season card featuring Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol has sparked varying reactions among boxing fans, with British and American audiences holding starkly contrasting views. While US fans are expressing disappointment with the undercard, deeming it lackluster and uneventful, UK fans are finding value in the domestic matchups featured on the same card.
US fans, in particular, are unimpressed with the undercard fights, labeling them as unexciting and consisting of mostly unknown fighters. The main event between Beterbiev and Bivol is the only saving grace for American viewers, with the rest of the matchups being deemed as subpar. The decision to air the undercard separately on DAZN PPV, without the highly anticipated Beterbiev-Bivol fight, has further frustrated US fans who feel they are missing out on the real action.
On the flip side, British fans have a more positive outlook on the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol card, particularly praising the undercard matchups involving domestic fighters. Analyst Gareth A. Davies has given the card a high rating, emphasizing the exceptional talent of fighters like Beterbiev and Bivol who have made their mark in America. However, it is essential to question whether the rating is influenced by promotional interests, given the lack of consensus among fans.
While Gareth lauds the matchup between Shakur Stevenson and Joe Cordina as a highlight of the card, US fans remain unconvinced, viewing it as lacking in competitiveness and appeal. The inclusion of domestic matchups like Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Kamil Szeremeta, Fabio Wardley vs. Frazer Clarke II, and others, has garnered attention from British fans who appreciate the significance of these bouts in building local talent and interest.
Despite the contrasting views between British and American fans, a critical assessment of the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol card reveals mixed opinions and varying expectations. While Gareth A. Davies highlights the star power of fighters like Stevenson and the potential for exciting matchups, skeptics remain unconvinced about the overall quality of the fights on the card.
The undercard bouts, although featuring some talented fighters, have failed to capture the imagination of US fans who see them as lacking in star power and excitement. The decision to separate the main event from the undercard for US viewers has only added to the frustration among boxing enthusiasts who were eagerly anticipating a more compelling lineup.
The Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol card has elicited divergent reactions from fans on either side of the Atlantic, highlighting the subjective nature of boxing preferences and the influence of promotional strategies on viewer perceptions. While British fans find value in the domestic matchups and talent showcased on the card, American fans are left yearning for more excitement and competitive matchups to justify their viewing experience. Ultimately, the success of the card will depend on how well it resonates with fans and delivers on the promise of thrilling boxing action.