Dmitry Bivol became undisputed light-heavyweight world champion as he secured revenge over Artur Beterbiev. The two boxing superstars served up a thrilling fight last year, when Beterbiev edged a points decision, and there were 12 more sensational rounds in Riyadh on Saturday night.
Beterbiev, who turned 40 last month, set a ferocious pace early on but Bivol began to take control in the second half of the fight, putting on a masterclass to take the initiative and this time the scorecards brought good news. One judge scored it 114-114, but the other two saw it 116-112 and 115-113 in Bivol’s favour, to set the stage for a trilogy decider.
Earlier in the night, Joseph Parker wasted little time in stopping Martin Bakole to keep himself on track for another shot at a world title. After a cagey opening round, Parker caught Bakole on the top of the head with a big right hand, and the referee stepped in to wave the fight off in the second. Hamzah Sheeraz fell short in his bid to become world champion after a split draw against Carlos Adames and, in the fight of the night, Callum Smith beat Joshua Buatsi by unanimous decision after 12 sensational rounds.
Beterbiev vs Bivol 2 latest news
- Dmitry Bivol beats Artur Beterbiev by majority decision
- Joseph Parker stops Martin Bakole in second round
- Hamzah Sheeraz fortunate to get draw against Carlos Adames
- Josh Padley brave in defeat to Shakur Stevenson
- Agit Kabayel stops Zhilei Zhang
- Callum Smith beats Joshua Buatsi in 12-round epic
Beterbiev wants the trilogy!
00:11 , Matt VerriAs we all do...
"We are going to do third fight defiantly!" 😯
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) February 23, 2025
Artur Beterbiev WANTS the trilogy with Dmitry Bivol 👀#BeterbievBivol2 | #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/smaMUbvGUT
Reaction from Bivol...
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:58 , Matt VerriHe was classy in defeat last year and it’s a typically impressive post-fight interview in victory.
A sensational performance from Dmitry Bivol.
"I am just SO happy, I went through so much last time" 🙌
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) February 22, 2025
An emotional Dmitry Bivol REACTS to defeating Artur Betetbiev to become UNDISPUTED champion 👑#BeterbievBivol2 | #riyadhseason pic.twitter.com/xYuO4AGIfM
And the new!
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:51 , Matt Verri114-114. 116-112. 115-113.
Winner by majority decision... Dmitry Bivol!
It’s revenge in Riyadh - and the right decision!
These two have now served up 24 brilliant rounds.
If Bivol gets the decision, surely we get 12 more?
Would not say no to that...
THE REMATCH GOES THE DISTANCE.
— Boxing on TNT Sports (@boxingontnt) February 22, 2025
Who is your winner — @ABeterbiev or @bivol_d ❓#TheLastCrescendo | #RiyadhSeason | BUY NOW on TNT Sports Box Office ▶️ https://t.co/FXWiFF98Ej pic.twitter.com/UiYLuaitGy
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:48 , Matt VerriRound 12
Beterbiev needs to find the kitchen sink. Bivol making a point of bouncing on his toes as he comes out from his corner, wants to look fresh.
And he does look fresh, still the combinations are thrown... and landing. Beterbiev needs to let his hands go, feels like he’s looking for one big shot.
Bivol holds for what feels like the first time tonight - referee hasn’t been needed at all.
Beterbiev is marching after Bivol, but he’s struggling to get the clean shots through. There is blood coming from Bivol’s eye, though.
Final 20 seconds - massive left from Beterbiev!
Bivol just trying to hold, it’s a frantic end to another sensational encounter.
115-113 Bivol on our card.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:44 , Matt VerriRound 11
I’ve got it 6-4 Bivol - that would mean Beterbiev needs these final two rounds.
Not sure Beterbiev has the pace he needs in the legs now, he’s slowed down significantly since the early rounds when he was making it frantic.
Bivol with a brilliant right hand, he’s still looking in control. Another one-two follows, Bivol keeps throwing in bunches.
Shot! Massive flurry from Bivol, and a huge right hand crunches into the side of Beterbiev’s face. Takes it very well, to be fair.
Sublime from Bivol in the final minute of that round. He’s surely three minutes away from victory.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:40 , Matt VerriRound 10
We’ve had a couple of momentum swings in this fight already - can Beterbiev find another one? He needs it.
Better start, trying to force the issue from centre ring, but Bivol lands the counter right off the back foot.
Another combination of four, five punches from Bivol. Starts to the head, ends with a shot whipped to the body.
More like it from Beterbiev, flurry of shots has Bivol taking a few backwards steps. Double jab, sharp right hand.
Tough round to score - a burst from Bivol right on the bell might be enough to take it.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:36 , Matt VerriRound 9
Beterbiev’s face is pretty marked up now, but it’s a trademark burst at the start of the round.
Bivol has a swift response, though. Snaps a right hand through the defences - stops the Beterbiev charge in a way he wasn’t a few rounds ago.
Sensational from Bivol, ducks away from Beterbiev’s attack and then puts three, four, five shots of his own together. So, so good.
Bivol looks on another level now, it’s so crisp. Bouncing around Beterbiev, picking him off. Doesn’t get much better than this.
Bivol 5-4 to the good on our card.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:32 , Matt VerriRound 8
Beterbiev’s corner tell him he gave away the seventh round, and that he has to respond here.
But it’s Bivol who is starting to look confident again, sharp one-two. And a straight right, he’s stopping Beterbiev from marching forward.
Lovely right hook, too. This is Bivol’s best spell since the opening round or two.
Is Beterbiev starting to feel the pace he set early on?
Dominant round from Bivol, great work to the body. He’s looking much the sharper of the two now.
Could well be level on the cards after eight rounds.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:28Round 7
Bivol loads up on the right hand after setting his feet in the centre of the ring, but the gloves of Beterbiev parry it.
Tight round again, there for either of them with a flurry in the final 30 seconds.
Bivol lands a stiff jab, backs it up with the right hand. And another one!
That could be enough for him to win the round. 4-3 Beterbiev on our card.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:24 , Matt VerriRound 6
It’s a more even round, both blocking what the other one is throwing. Bivol a bit more in control, getting the jab going again.
But Beterbiev has prepared another flurry in the final minute... only for Bivol to respond!
Sets his feet, looks for the straight right. Beterbiev sees it coming.
Great combination from Bivol behind the double jab, but that has kicked Beterbiev into life again! Furious burst from him at the bell.
That’s a tough round to score.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:20 , Matt VerriRound 5
Would be a big ask for Beterbiev to keep this pace up for 12 rounds.
Yet again he’s flown off his stool, immediately on the front foot.
Pace drops slightly in the second half of the round, not quite so relentless from Beterbiev.
Bivol not really taking advantage, though. He’s staying on the back foot, picking his counter shots.
That right does land on Beterbiev’s chin, but he doesn’t flinch.
And here comes Beterbiev again, after taking a bit of a breather. Right hand lands, and another two or three. Bivol covering up.
Beterbiev 3-2 up?
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:16 , Matt VerriRound 4
Beterbiev continues to club Bivol with the overhand right, he’s keen to start these rounds really quickly.
Bivol is being marched down, relentless pressure from Beterbiev. Keeping the pace really high.
It’s all Beterbiev in this round, Bivol is struggling to slow his momentum.
Jab, right hand, straight left... Beterbiev very much in full flow now.
Better from Bivol, left hand lands... before Beterbiev swings at thin air with a huge right hand.
Beterbiev’s round, he’s on top now.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:12 , Matt VerriRound 3
Beterbiev has absolutely marched out of the corner. Two clubbing right hands in the opening seconds.
Bivol putting the combinations together, throwing three or four punches at a time. Beterbiev again responds with a straight right.
Bivol fighting largely off the back foot, has the ropes on his back at times, but he’s picking his shots superbly. Clean work.
Left uppercut gets through, Beterbiev’s head rocked back. Every time Beterbiev lands, Bivol is responding with more.
But that’s a great right from Beterbiev, Bivol briefly covering up as the body shot is whipped in too.
Big attack in those final seconds from Beterbiev, but think it’s still Bivol’s round. Got him 2-1 up.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:08 , Matt VerriRound 2
Good footwork from Bivol, spins away just as Beterbiev looked to try and pin him in the corner.
It’s Beterbiev pushing the pace, finding his range with the jab and a right hand follows. High guard from Bivol blocked it.
Lovely right hand from Bivol, he’s countering nicely.
Such a high-quality fight already, as you’d expect. Intensity right from the off.
Bivol closes the distance and gets a left hand through just before the bell.
Beterbiev vs Bivol
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:04 , Matt VerriRound 1
The respect they have for each other is obvious. Both holding their feet in the centre of the ring but neither willing to commit yet.
Beterbiev has gone to the body a few times already, Bivol responds with a sharp double jab.
Final minute of the round it’s Beterbiev on the front foot, Bivol pushed back onto the ropes. Nice right hand landed too.
Probably just about his round, much not much in it.
Ding ding!
Saturday 22 February 2025 23:00 , Matt VerriHere we go then - a rematch of one of the biggest fights the sport has to offer.
All the light-heavyweight titles on the line.
Strap. In.
Fighters are in the ring.
Anthony Joshua, Oleksandr Usyk and Terence Crawford among those watching on from ringside.
Can barely see Beterbiev, with the amount of belts being held up around him.
It's time!
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:53 , Matt VerriWe’ve got all sorts of montages going on ahead of this fight.
But it is now time for two of the sport’s superstars to make their way to the ring.
Repeat or revenge, in this undisputed light-heavyweight showdown?
Beterbiev vs Bivol prediction
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:44 , Matt VerriIt is easy to see a familiar situation unfolding in the main event.
Bivol fought very smartly in the first fight, showing all of his technical and tactical nous while at the same time being rightly wary of Beterbiev’s formidable reputation as one of boxing’s most devastating punchers that had previously seen him win all of his 20 professional contests by knockout.
However, despite a slow start, it was Beterbiev’s constant front-foot approach during a fascinating chess match and strong finish that scored highly to ultimately claim a controversial victory.
The question is, how can Bivol realistically change up his approach the second time around when what he did in October wasn’t enough?
Taking more risks against a puncher of Beterbiev’s power seems dangerous and ill-advised, while Bivol himself has only one stoppage on his record since 2018.
It seems likely that he will once again try to outbox and outwork his rival and hope that this time his efforts get a more favourable response from the judges, but we’re backing Beterbiev’s relentless pressure and more eye-catching shots to win the day once more after another electric showdown.
Beterbiev to win on points again.
Parker wants his shot!
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:37 , Matt VerriTonight was supposed to be a chance for Parker to become a two-time world champion, only for Dubois to pull out with illness.
After tonight’s rapid victory, Parker is now turning his attention back to those at the division’s top table.
"WHO'S NEXT & How can I fight for a world title?" 🏆
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) February 22, 2025
Joseph Parker REACTS to beating Martin Bakole 💪#ParkerBakole | #RiyadhSeason | Sky Sports Box Office pic.twitter.com/o5FsFqHcaW
Parker marches on
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:30 , Matt VerriCould have been an awkward night for Parker, but it’s turned into a dominant one.
What next for him? Does that fight with Daniel Dubois get rearranged? Maybe a showdown with Oleksandr Usyk?
He won’t be short of options.
That right hand caught Bakole high on the head, his legs were completely gone.
Did well to beat the count, but it’s the right decision from the referee to wave it off.
Bakole’s corner were not going to let it continue.
Parker stops Bakole!
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:26 , Matt VerriRound 2
Combination from Parker, who is upping the pace now.
Bakole walking onto these shots, he’s trying to force the issue but getting caught in the process.
Big right hand from Parker, Bakole shakes his head in response. He felt that.
BAKOLE DOWN!
Another right hand, Bakole stumbles back and it’s a heavy fall.
WAVED OFF! Parker stops Bakole inside two rounds!
Parker vs Bakole
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:22 , Matt VerriRound 1
If you want some added proof of how wild this all is, Bakole is wearing Dubois’ gloves. Didn’t have time to get any of his own over.
He’s barely moved his feet so far, Parker the one bringing the energy and the bounce, as you’d expect.
In the nicest possible way, if this is Bakole at his freshest... this isn’t going to go very well for him.
Bursts into life briefly with a left uppercut, Parker quick to hold.
And Bakole then lands a right hand, again that gets his feet moving. Encouraging end to the round for him.
Ding ding!
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:19 , Matt VerriHere we go then.
Underway as Parker fights Bakole, and I have absolutely no idea what’s about to happen!
Fighters are in the ring.
Reminder that Bakole landed in Riyadh less than 24 hours ago. His body won’t have a clue what time-zone he’s in.
None of that matters for the next 36 minutes... although I’d be surprised if we made it that far.
Parker prowling around the corridors backstage, looking very relaxed.
It’s time for the chief support - this should be a lot of fun.
Feels like a free hit for Bakole, with the pressure very much on Parker.
Bakole to walk to the ring first.
Two to go!
Saturday 22 February 2025 22:07 , Matt VerriWe’re into the business end of tonight’s action.
Next up, it’s the heavyweights. Joseph Parker takes on Martin Bakole, who was at home in the Congo 48 hours ago.
Can’t imagine he has the fitness for 12 rounds, so expect him to come out hot!
Padley a part-time electrician, was working earlier this week when he got the call up after a late change in opponent.
Padley deserved a huge amount of credit.
Stevenson retains his world title, kisses to the crowd in response to some boos.
Stevenson stops Padley!
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:57 , Matt VerriRound 9
Padley’s corner telling him they’re incredibly proud, but that they won’t let him keep taking clean shots. Will pull him out if Padley can’t stay out of trouble.
SHOT!
Right to the body from Stevenson and Padley is dropped. Up pretty quickly, beating the canvas in frustration.
Padley taking a fair bit of punishment now, but he hasn’t stopped throwing.
Down again - another body shot and Padley does well to beat the count. Huge roar from the crowd.
But Stevenson is going to the body time and time again, brutally tough for Padley.
Can he make it to the end of the round?
Down for a third time, beats the count... but the towel is thrown in.
Massive effort from Padley, that was the right decision though.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:52 , Matt VerriRound 8
Stevenson hasn’t ever been hurt, but Padley has thrown some really nice combinations.
Starting to feel like Stevenson might have had enough, he’s upping the pace again.
Left hook lands, but Padley then forces the American back onto the ropes.
Some effort, this.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:49 , Matt VerriRound 7
Into the second half of the fight we go. Brave effort from Padley to get this far.
Stevenson with a lovely right hook, but he still can’t stop Padley from marching forward.
Two lovely lefts to the body from Stevenson, who laughs as Padley nearly bends over.
But Padley is over it and a lovely combination again just before the bell. Stevenson in his face with a glare as he walks back to the corner.
Stevenson has won probably every round, but it’s been a very watchable fight.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:44 , Matt VerriRound 6
Padley looks to have recovered, he’s putting together some nice flurries to the body.
But now his head is rocked back - Stevenson tagged him.
Padley continues to get even more aggressive when he is hurt. Not taking a backwards step.
This is getting tough for Padley, though. End could be near.
Stevenson letting his hands go, he’s landing near at will. Right hand whipped to the body again.
Uppercut, body, uppercut... big smile on Stevenson’s face. Padley responds, but Stevenson smirks back at him.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:41 , Matt VerriRound 5
Feels like Stevenson could really go through the gears if he wanted to - no sign of it yet.
Padley looking fairly comfortable in there, happy to make it scrappy on the inside.
But Padley is now hurt - left to the body and the Briton is covering up!
Now a one-two to the head, Padley swinging away in response but he really felt that.
Bell comes at a very good time.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:36 , Matt VerriRound 4
Good round from Padley so far. He’s moving nicely around the ring, and has cut the distance to Stevenson a couple of times.
Right hand from the American gets through, but Stevenson isn’t forcing the pace at all.
Thought he might look to make more of a statement than this.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:32 , Matt VerriRound 3
There have been a few times where Stevenson has burst into life, and it’s forced Padley scrambling back onto the ropes each time.
Hands high from Padley, as Stevenson lands a left at close range.
Padley is still letting those hands go, trying to meet fire with fire.
Jab from Stevenson is so sharp, Padley’s head snapped back every time.
Left lands flush on Padley’s chin, again he takes it well.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:28 , Matt VerriRound 2
Padley bounced into the ropes, as Stevenson puts a combination together for the first time.
The Briton is showing a good chin, though. Takes a couple of clean shots on the inside.
Signs that Stevenson is starting to step it up, having cruised through the opening couple of rounds.
Stevenson vs Padley
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:24 , Matt VerriRound 1
Stevenson having a look at Padley in the opening minute - probably not entirely sure what to expect.
American lands a left hook as they both move in, he’s starting to establish that jab.
But Padley steps in and lands a right hand - he’s been pretty brave in this opening round.
Impressive from the Briton, didn’t look out of his depth.
Here we go then, Stevenson putting his WBC lightweight title on the line.
He is several levels above Padley. Anything other than a dominant win would be a massive shock.
Padley, though, has the chance to shock the world!
Fighters are in the ring.
Who is Josh Padley?
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:16 , Matt VerriWith much of the focus on Martin Bakole stepping in for Daniel Dubois to fight Joseph Parker, another very late replacement opponent faces a huge challenge earlier on Saturday night’s boxing blockbuster in Riyadh as Josh Padley meets Shakur Stevenson.
Briton Padley only got the call late on Tuesday night to fly out to Saudi Arabia to be part of one of the biggest shows in the sport’s history, replacing Floyd Schofield.
Matchroom’s Padley is an unbeaten 15-0 fighter (with four knockouts) hailing from the village of Armthorpe in Doncaster in South Yorkshire, who alongside his boxing career also works as an electrician.
Indeed, the 29-year-old had been “crawling through a roof installing solar panels” before getting the call to jet out to Saudi on Tuesday.
Read more on Padley’s story here!
118-110 probably too wide, but Adames should have won that fight.
Sheeraz didn’t offer enough, it was a really safe performance from him. Not enough to take a world title off the champion.
A DRAW! 😯
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) February 22, 2025
Carlos Adames and Hamzah Sheeraz could not be separated, do you agree with the Judges? 👀#BeterbievBivol2 | #RiyadhSeason | Sky Sports Box Office pic.twitter.com/abZIxvTpwb
Split draw!
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:08115-114 Sheeraz! Not sure where that has come from.
118-110 Adames. 114-114... a split draw!
That’s a poor set of cards. Really poor.
Adames at least keeps his world title.
Don’t think you can make a case for Sheeraz winning that fight.
Frustration from his corner and promoter at various points in the fight.
Was incredibly passive from Sheeraz for basically the entirety of the second half of the fight.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:05 , Matt VerriRound 12
“You have to knock him out to win.” Sheeraz’s corner making it clear he’s behind on the cards. Now or never if he is to win the world title tonight.
Left hook whistles over Adames’ head, Sheeraz can’t quite get the range.
Jab from Adames, great combination follows it. He’s still looking fresh.
Biiig uppercut, Sheeraz really felt that. Adames having a brilliant final round.
Sheeraz’s corner screaming at him to get forward - he’s still not really listening. Sat on the back foot, waiting to counter.
That’s not going to be enough... Adames cruises to the final bell.
116-112 to Adames on our card.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 21:00 , Matt VerriRound 11
Here we go, at long last Sheeraz is moving forward.
Uppercut doesn’t quite land but it still gets the crowd going, and he’s suddenly letting his hands go.
Adames responds, lovely one-two. Different question for him now with Sheeraz holding his feet.
Brilliant left hand from Sheeraz, lands flush. Stiff jab backs it up.
And now a straight right, at long last he’s woken up.
Sheeraz’s round - still needs a big final three minutes to have any hope.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:57 , Matt VerriRound 10
Sheeraz’s promoter Frank Warren very, very animated at ringside. Near enough screaming at the corner, he wants his man to step it up. Significantly.
The Briton is still camped on the back foot. It’s been fought at a slow pace, Sheeraz surely can’t be too tired. Needs a big final couple of rounds.
Adames firing in the jab to head and body, he looks full of confidence.
Still strangely passive from Sheeraz. Struggling to see how he could be up on the cards - 6-4 down about as good as I can give it for him.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:52 , Matt VerriRound 9
Short right hand rocks Sheeraz’s head back, the Briton needs to do more.
Sheeraz back on the ropes, three or four body shots whipped in by Adames.
Jab to the body from Adames, Sheeraz complains that it was low - referee doesn’t get involved.
Head movement really good from Adames, shifting away from Sheeraz’s jab.
This one is called low from Adames - another warning from the referee.
His round again, though.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:48 , Matt VerriRound 8
Time out called by the referee - warns Adames after a low blow.
Big overhand right from Adames, probably the best shot of the fight so far.
Sheeraz takes it well, but he needs to start imposing himself on this. He’s jabbing decently enough but not much else.
Combination from Adames, but Sheeraz responds with a great right hand. Better.
Not much action in the final 30 seconds, it’s probably another round for Adames. 5-3 up on our card.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:44 , Matt VerriRound 7
Sheeraz could do with a good round to just halt some of the momentum Adames has.
Double job, right hand from Adames. He’s very much on top.
Still fairly cautious from Sheeraz, he’s not throwing much.
4-3 Adames.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:40 , Matt VerriRound 6
Sheeraz not looking as comfortable when Adames gets up close - that’s favouring the champion.
Fight is starting to get going after an uneventful first few rounds.
Adames is responsible for that, he’s the one pushing the pace and letting his hands go.
Three, four shots to the body from Adames. His workrate is putting him on top, even if Sheeraz hasn’t been particularly troubled.
Right hand from Sheeraz, Adames ducks under it. Level at halfway?
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:36 , Matt VerriRound 5
When will one of them step in the gas and try and take control?
Adames does now decide to get up close, but opts against exchanging on the inside. Steps back almost immediately.
Couple of nice shots to the body of Sheeraz, more like it from Adames.
And a straight left, Adames has been much, much better this round.
Sheeraz tries to land a few big shots on the bell, but he swings at thin air. Adames’ round.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:33 , Matt VerriRound 4
No real pace in this fight.
Adames short with the right hand and gets tagged, Sheeraz continues to pick his moments.
Adames is on the front foot, but not really closing the distance or putting the pressure on Sheeraz.
We’ve got it 3-1 Sheeraz, but it’s not easy to score at all.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:28 , Matt VerriRound 3
Adames is working the harder of the two, on the front foot in the centre of the ring.
But Sheeraz’s work has been clean, even if he hasn’t thrown a huge amount.
30 seconds to go in the round, it’s still there for either of them to win.
All very cagey. Adames maybe just edged it by being the one walking forwards.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:24 , Matt VerriRound 2
Neither man wanting to take too many risks early on.
Adames reluctant to rush things - caught with a lovely jab as he does step in there.
Double jab from Sheeraz, right hand then forces Adames to take a couple of steps back.
Sheeraz’s round, it’s been a confident enough start.
Adames vs Sheeraz
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:20 , Matt VerriRound 1
Stiff jabs early on from Sheeraz, confident start.
Adames holding the centre of the ring, but Sheeraz is happy to stay on the back foot for now.
Adames jabbing to the body, not really looking to close the distance.
Nothing in the opening round.
Boos for Adames as he skips to the ring. Looking very relaxed, is the Dominican.
It’s a big step up for Sheeraz - we’re about to find out just how good he is.
Sheeraz goes for world title!
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:08 , Matt VerriNext up, Hamzah Sheeraz looks to become the latest British world champion.
He challenges for Carlos Adames’ WBC middleweight title.
Sheerez is the favourite, he’s been so impressive in his professional career to date.
21-0, 17 knockouts... can the 25-year-old now join the top table?
Ortiz wins by unanimous decision!
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:03 , Matt VerriHere we go then.
117-111. 115-113. 115-113.
All in favour of... Vergil Ortiz Jr!
Madrimov probably had the better of the second half of the fight, but Ortiz looked comfortable early on.
Not the easiest fight to score. Ortiz was on the front foot in those early rounds and that could prove the difference.
It’s pretty tight, though...
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 20:00 , Matt VerriRound 12
Touch of gloves as we head into the final three minutes.
“Heads out” is basically a constant shout from the referee now. He’s doing everything he can to avoid taking a point off.
Great right hand to the body from Ortiz, but Madrimov lands to the head almost at the same time.
Madrimov leads with the head again, he nearly rugby tackles Ortiz out of the ring.
“Last warning” says the referee for maybe the fifth time. Madrimov very fortunate to have avoided being docked a point.
There’s the final bell!
We’ve got it 115-113 to Ortiz.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:56 , Matt VerriRound 11
Madrimov does need to be careful with that head after so many warnings. He is still leading with it.
Ortiz with a right hook on the inside. “I’m not going to tell you again” says the referee to Madrimov, as he tells him again.
Ortiz’s jab is keeping Madrimov back for now, as he now boxes off the back foot.
Great left hook from Madrimov, continues to push the pace. Like a different fighter, compared to the first few rounds.
Two right hands late in the round from Madrimov, his round again. 6-5 Ortiz?
Job isn’t done yet, with one round to go...
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:52 , Matt VerriRound 10
Madrimov has Ortiz back on the ropes, good work rate and he’s going forehead-to-forehead. Warned again for leading with his head.
Referee stops the fight once more 30 seconds later - tells Madrimov he’ll take a point off if it happens again.
Big flurry from Ortiz, but Madrimov continues to march forward. He’s not taking a backwards step.
Couple of overhand rights from Madrimov, Ortiz with a nice counter. Fight has definitely come to life now.
6-4 Ortiz on our card after ten rounds.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:48 , Matt VerriRound 9
Ortiz with a fierce right hook to the body, he’s looking as fresh as he did at the start of the fight.
It’s a bit messy from Madrimov at close range, he’s getting smothered.
And Ortiz is starting to go through the gears again, good combination and Madrimov’s knees briefly dip.
This is a big attack from Ortiz, marching forward and whipping in the shots. Madrimov is feeling these.
Another sharp combination right on the bell - Ortiz’s best round in a while.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:44 , Matt VerriRound 8
Really is no-risk stuff from Ortiz. Those gloves have not dropped at all.
Madrimov working really hard to close the distance and letting his hands go, even if he isn’t have a huge amount of success.
Been a decent couple of rounds for him - 5-3 Ortiz.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:40 , Matt VerriRound 7
Madrimov is starting to really push now, knowing he’s well behind on the cards.
That overhand right has been a bit wild, though. Ortiz seeing it coming a mile off.
Madrimov might have to go to the body more, Ortiz’s guard is blocking nearly everything to the head.
Better from Madrimov - his round for sure.
In the building!
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:36 , Matt VerriMartin Bakole is in his dressing room, after a chaotic 48 hours.
On Thursday he was in the Congo - now he’s stepped in as a last-minute opponent to fight Joseph Parker.
Would be an incredible story if Bakole upset the odds tonight.
"I am here to SHOCK the world!" 🌎
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) February 22, 2025
Martin Bakole ahead of his huge fight against Joseph Parker 😮💨#ParkerBakole |#RiyadhSeason | Sky Sports Box Office pic.twitter.com/h2hYfBlmDO
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:35 , Matt VerriRound 6
Ortiz very patient. Madrimov bouncing side to side, Ortiz just waits for him to stop before picking his shots.
Referee pauses the fight - warning for Madrimov. Said he twice led with the head and then stuck a shoulder in.
Madrimov tries to land the overhand right, again the guard is high from Ortiz to block it.
I’ve got it 5-1 Ortiz at halfway.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:31 , Matt VerriRound 5
Madrimov landing short when he does try and let his hands go - needs to close the distance.
More like it here, right hand gets through the distances. Looks like there might be a bit of blood on Ortiz’s nose.
More action in that round than we had in the previous four combined.
Madrimov taking more risks and that’s his best three minutes of the fight.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:27 , Matt VerriRound 4
Madrimov seems happy to stay on the back foot, skipping around the outside of the ring.
Surely needs a change of plan at some point - he’s barely landed on Ortiz.
Madrimov in the corner, his head snapped back by a straight right.
It’s all very comfortable for Ortiz right now.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:23 , Matt VerriRound 3
Ortiz has been really efficient. Not throwing a huge amount, not using much energy, but he’s almost constantly walking forward and controlling things.
It’s a very high guard from Ortiz, not giving Madrimov much encouragement.
Another largely uneventful round, but Ortiz could be 3-0 up.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:19 , Matt VerriRound 2
Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua among those sitting at ringside, taking selfies and laughing with each other.
Ortiz has just started to up the pace, he’s still the one dominating the centre of the ring.
Madrimov tries to land a big right hand late in the round, Ortiz sees it coming. Neither taking too many risks.
Ortiz vs Madrimov
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:15Round 1
Crowd firmly behind Madrimov as we get underway.
We’ve had non-stop action so far tonight, but this is a fairly cagey start to the bout.
Ortiz in the centre of the ring, Madrimov bouncing around him, a lot of movement.
Nothing clean lands in the opening round, but Ortiz probably edged it.
Next up...
Saturday 22 February 2025 19:08 , Matt VerriIt’s time for Vergil Ortiz Jr vs Israil Madrimov.
This one has gone slightly under the radar this week, but it could prove to be one of the fights of the night.
Ortiz 22-0 with 21 knockouts. Madrimov has been beaten only by Terence Crawford.
Kabayel now 26-0 and he holds the WBC interim belt.
Zhang, who has been given some oxygen in the corner, was struggling with the pace from the second round.
The body shots from Kabayel were relentless and it just broke Zhang down.
He turns 42 in May - could that be the last we see of him in the ring?
Kabayel stops Zhang!
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:57 , Matt VerriRound 6
Why has the referee jumped in?
Body shot from Kabayel has Zhang doubled over, turns away... and the referee steps in.
Gave Zhang a bit of time to recover, he’s very lucky.
Zhang looks like he’s been fighting for six days, not six rounds. He best land something big soon because I can’t see him going the distance.
AND HE’S DOWN!
Zhang takes a knee after another brilliant shot to the body... and it’s all over!
Zhang can’t beat the count, Kabayel marches on.
Zhang vs Kabayel
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:53 , Matt VerriRound 5
KABAYEL DOWN!
Out. Of. Nothing. Left hand lands flush, Kabayel staggers back and hits the canvas. Still two minutes in the round.
Zhang has come alive now, he lands a straight left.
But Kabayel gets back on the front foot and he looks to have steady legs again.
Good response from Kabayel, uppercut snaps Zhang’s head back and then a flurry of shots to the body.
It’s still a 10-8 round to Zhang.
Zhang vs Kabayel
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:49 , Matt VerriRound 4
It’s all Kabayel.
Zhang draws boos from the crowd, as he basically pushes Kabayel in the face. Referee has a word.
There is surely no way they can keep this pace up for 12 rounds. Already they look fairly exhausted, particularly Zhang.
Not much happens in the final minute, but Kabayel’s round again.
Zhang vs Kabayel
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:45 , Matt VerriRound 3
Really good pace to the fight, which I’m not sure Zhang is too delighted about.
Kabayel is getting up close and firing to Zhang’s body, happy to make this as gruelling as possible.
Right hook, a couple of left hands to the body... it’s great work from Kabayel.
Got him 2-1 up.
Zhang vs Kabayel
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:41 , Matt VerriRound 2
Positive from Kabayel early in the round, keen to get on the front foot much more.
Plenty of work to the body, where Zhang’s skin is already pretty red.
Kabayel is forcing the pace, marching forward and landing the clubbing shots.
Zhang already breathing fairly heavily - Kabayel’s round.
Zhang vs Kabayel
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:37 , Matt VerriRound 1
Kabayel the one moving around the outside of the ring.
Zhang, as ever, not too keen on that. He’ll stand there and wait for his moment to throw heavy leather.
Zhang lands a good left hand, Kabayel has to get out of there quickly - can’t get caught on the ropes.
Fairly even opening round. Kabayel probably working harder, cleaner shots from Zhang.
Here we go then, Zhang and Kabayel have touched gloves and we’re ready to get underway.
Plenty of Kabayel fans in attendance, judging by the chants.
On we go...
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:30 , Matt VerriAnd the action continues immediately.
Next up, it’s Zhilei Zhang vs Agit Kabayel... I would be astonished if this went the distance.
Kabayel is 25-0, looking to prove he is ready to take on the division’s elite.
Zhang, who will turn 42 in May, stopped Deontay Wilder last year, bouncing back from his defeat to Joseph Parker.
Fight of the year?
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:28 , Matt VerriThis was after the sixth round!
You know a fight’s fairly decent when the standing ovation starts halfway through it...
Everyone watching Buatsi vs. Smith...#BeterbievBivol2 | #RiyadhSeason | Feb 22, live NOW on DAZN: Click link in bio to buy | @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/O2JQWebX1x
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) February 22, 2025
Smith wins by unanimous decision!
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:21 , Matt Verri119-110. 115-113. 116-112.
All in favour... of Callum Smith!
Had to be - what a performance that was.
That will be right up there when the Fight of the Year decisions are made.
Just a ridiculous pace over the 12 rounds, that sixth round in particularly was extraordinary.
Smith’s cut was pretty ugly by the end but it did not slow him down one bit.
Still waiting for the judges...
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:17 , Matt VerriRound 12
Here we go then. What a sensational fight it’s been.
Superb left hook from Smith, that’s staggered Buatsi and he can only hold on!
It’s Smith coming on strong out of nowhere, he’s leaving everything out there. Left hook again - gumshield from Buatsi flies out again.
Referee waves the fighters on, it’s an absolute slugfest heading into the final minute! Now he does pause it, gumshield back in.
Right hand from Buatsi lands flush, Smith takes it.
Buatsi nearly swings himself off his feet, Smith pounces and now he’s back on the front foot. This is madness!
They can both barely stand up but they are swinging for the hills - there’s the final bell!
Incredible fight. Smith has surely done enough, could see 115-113 or even 116-112 in his favour.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:13 , Matt VerriRound 11
Six minutes left - Buatsi needs something very special.
It’s a good start to the round, landing the jab at will. He’s trying to force the pace but they’re both exhausted.
Couple more shots to the body from Buatsi, and now up to the head as Smith tries to hold on. Under real pressure.
Smith is definitely the more tired, but he’s countering well.
Buatsi’s round - but that’s not enough at this stage.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:09 , Matt VerriRound 10
Buatsi’s corner making it clear he needs a knockout. They know their man has been second best so far.
But it’s Smith who again rocks Buatsi to his boots!
Smith has definitely tired, but he’s still landing plenty. Buatsi needs to really go for it now.
Great body shot, Smith is sat back on the ropes... that body shot definitely got through.
This could be Buatsi’s chance - he’s marching forward. Stiff jab, and a great left hook lands flush.
But Smith comes back - two huge right hands. Not sure where’s suddenly found the energy from.
HUUUUGE right hand on the bell from Smith, just as Buatsi was trying to push things. Another sensational round.
Smith 7-3.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:05 , Matt VerriRound 9
Virgil Hunter telling Buatsi that Smith is about to break down. Not sure about that...
They’re back to exchanging at close range, body shots are being whipped in.
Straight right from Smith is a brilliant shot, Buatsi doesn’t seem to be staggered though.
And another one! Buatsi has taken so many clean shots tonight.
Think we’re in “needs a stoppage” territory now for Buatsi, heading into the final three rounds.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 18:01 , Matt VerriRound 8
Buatsi marches forward, misses with the overhand right and gets tagged with the left hook... again.
Uppercut from Buatsi gets through, but Smith takes it well.
It’s a better final minute for Buatsi, who has at least come through that sixth round storm.
Got it 6-2 to Smith, though.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:57 , Matt VerriRound 7
What do these two have left in the tank after those ridiculous three minutes?
Unsurprisingly it’s a bit more cautious form both.
Buatsi trying to get the jab going, his legs are looking steady again now.
Fairly uneventful round, but you have to think Buatsi is a long way behind on the cards.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:53 , Matt VerriRound 6
Buatsi’s corner furious with him. “You’re down five-nothing ... do you have what it takes?”
“Watch,” says Buatsi.
Doesn’t seem to be an immediate shift from Buatsi, he’s still standing in front of Smith and letting the Liverpudlian tee off.
HUGE SHOT! Right hand from Smith and Buatsi is staggered - he’s hurt here. Did so well not to go down
And Smith has turned up with the kitchen sink, he’s going for the finish. Buatsi still on his feet but he has more than a minute to get through.
Another right hand, it’s relentless from Smith. Buatsi hanging on for dear life, his legs are not under him at all.
LEFT HOOK FROM BUATSI! SMITH IS HURT!!
And now Buatsi is throwing everything at him - the bell comes at a good time for Smith. That was an astonishing round.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:49 , Matt VerriRound 5
Buatsi very nearly ducks into a big left hook - think he just about saw it coming in time.
This is gruelling stuff, they’re forehead-to-forehead as they trade.
Smith digs in another lovely left hook to the body, and then one to the head! Buatsi’s gumshield flies out.
The left is doing the damage for Smith, to body and head. Buatsi has his elbows tucked but he’s still being caught.
The swelling under Smith’s right eye doesn’t look great at all, but I’ve got him 4-1 up.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:45 , Matt VerriRound 4
Smith’s eyes are starting to look a bit marked up.
Left to the body, right to the head... it’s more good work from Smith.
But Buatsi comes back with a couple of clubbing shots of his own. Both basically just standing in front of each other and trading.
Now a fair bit of swelling under Smith’s eye and a cut too - can they keep this pace up for 12 rounds?
Buatsi pushing Smith back onto the ropes, first signs of fatigue from the two of them.
Clean shots exchanged right on the bell - nod and a smile from Buatsi.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:41 , Matt VerriRound 3
“Don’t worry about the head this round,” is the advice from Smith’s corner. “He don’t like it downstairs.”
Smith has other ideas - left hook and then straight right to the head.
Buatsi holding the centre of the ring in this round, it’s Smith being edged back towards the ropes.
Fluffy of left hooks from Smith, his corner loved that. He’s working so hard in these opening rounds.
But Buatsi lands flush! Smith looks vulnerable all of a sudden, body shot briefly had the Liverpudlian hurt.
Great right hand from Smith to end the round - he might just have sneaked that one too.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:37Round 2
Great left hook from Buatsi, after a flurry of shots from Smith. Being fought at such a good pace.
Uppercut from Smith, again Buatsi takes it well but he must be feeling those.
Buatsi with the double jab, Smith responds with a right hand... doesn’t quite land. Left hook to the body does - and another one seconds later.
Not an easy fight to score, with both enjoying success, but Smith has probably edged both rounds so far.
Buatsi vs Smith
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:33 , Matt VerriRound 1
Good start from Buatsi, getting to work on the inside in the opening minute.
Smith won’t mind that though, throws in a nice body shot. They’ve been about six inches away from each other the whole time so far.
Some huge shots being thrown already - Smith hits the deck but it was a trip.
Smith has settled really well , landed flush on a few occasions already, but Buatsi is taking them well.
Buatsi warned about a low shot in the final seconds of the round - that was really entertaining. 11 more of those and we’re in business.
WBO interim light-heavyweight title is on the line - that’s currently held by Buatsi.
We’ve had the list of sponsors read out - might have been quicker to name those that aren’t sponsoring.
Talking is done - time to get this one up and running.
Here we go!
Saturday 22 February 2025 17:25 , Matt VerriSmith first to make the walk to the ring.
Arena still has plenty of empty seats, with it being so early in the night. VIPs haven’t turned up yet.
Quiet atmosphere making this one feel fairly low-key, but it’s anything but.
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