Dmitry Bivol stands as a universally acknowledged force in the realm of boxing, consistently recognized among the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters.
Despite his own acclaim, the WBA light heavyweight titleholder firmly asserts that the distinction of the world’s best boxer rests with Terence “Bud” Crawford.
In 2022, Bivol secured the coveted Fighter of the Year award, achieving this feat through impressive victories over Canelo Alvarez and Gilberto Ramirez.
However, his momentum waned in 2023, with only one bout, a unanimous decision win against Lyndon Arthur on December 23.
The first half of the year saw Bivol avidly pursuing a rematch with Canelo Alvarez, a pursuit that proved futile as Alvarez entered into a three-fight deal with PBC. Notably, the possibility of Crawford facing Alvarez began circulating as a potential matchup, gaining traction as both fighters expressed openness to the idea.
Bivol believes Crawford deserves Canelo fight
While Alvarez and Crawford contemplate the prospect of a clash, the logistical challenge arises, as it would necessitate Crawford, a 147-pounder, to ascend three weight classes to challenge Alvarez.
Despite the unconventional nature of this move, Bivol, reflecting on his own boxing journey, acknowledges Crawford‘s ambition without deeming it implausible.
“When I stepped into a boxing gym, the first rule was to respect weight classes,” Bivol told BoxingScene.com.
“But I don’t know what Crawford is going to eat. He’s the best fighter. Everything that he’s planning, shouldn’t look like it’s crazy.
“If he’s thinking about it, if he’s talking about it, it means it’s possible.”
As Bivol looks ahead to his own future, his primary focus centers on securing an opportunity to vie for the undisputed championship at 175 pounds.
Following his commanding victory over Lyndon Arthur, all indications point towards the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia financing Bivol‘s next bout against WBC, WBO, and IBF champion Artur Beterbiev.