On February 22, 2025, the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will be transformed into a battleground for some of boxing’s most elite fighters. Live broadcasts on DAZN PPV will ensure fans from across the globe won’t miss a moment of this thrilling event. The highlight of the evening will undoubtedly be the much-anticipated rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, a clash that promises to decide the undisputed light heavyweight champion. With main card events scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM KSA, boxing aficionados will be glued to their screens as history unfolds in real-time.
Artur Beterbiev, entering the ring with an impressive record of 21 wins, all by knockout, aims to defend his title and extend his reign in the light heavyweight division. His knockout power has made him one of the most feared adversaries, and the rematch provides him a platform to showcase his skills once again after a highly scrutinized 2024 victory over Bivol. On the flip side, Dmitry Bivol, who carries a professional record of 21 wins and 1 loss, comes back from his only defeat with renewed focus. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as Bivol aims not only for redemption but also to seize the titles that eluded him in their first encounter.
In another thrilling matchup, heavyweight Daniel Dubois will defend his IBF title against seasoned boxer Joseph Parker. Dubois, who stunned boxing fans with a sensational knockout of former champion Anthony Joshua in September, is looking to build on that momentum. His record stands at 22 wins with 21 knockouts, reaffirming his status as a powerhouse in the heavyweight category. Meanwhile, Parker, possessing a record of 35 wins and 3 losses, represents a significant challenge for Dubois. Riding a five-fight win streak, Parker’s experience and technical skill could very well upset the young Brit’s rise to dominance.
The evening will also showcase several undercard fights that feature exceptional talent. Notably, Carlos Adames will face Hamzah Sheeraz while vying for the WBC Middleweight Title. The excitement doesn’t stop there; Zhilei Zhang will contend for the WBC Interim Heavyweight Title against Agit Kabayel. Rising star Vergil Ortiz Jr. is also expected to take on Israil Madrimov for an Interim Super Welterweight Title. Additional bouts will include Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield for the WBC Lightweight Title and Joshua Buatsi squaring off against Callum Smith for the Interim WBO Light Heavyweight Title.
As the night approaches, Pete Oliver, CEO of Growth Markets at DAZN, emphasizes the significance of the event: “This is a night that truly encapsulates the spirit of boxing – the best fighting the best on a global stage.” This reflects the growing trend of globalizing boxing events in regions such as Saudi Arabia, which are eager to establish themselves as prominent players in the sporting world.
Overall, the showdown in Riyadh promises to be a significant chapter in boxing history, with numerous stories poised to intersect and redefine futures in the sport. Expect electrifying performances and an unforgettable atmosphere as world-class athletes strive for glory.