Dmitry Bivol stops Malik Zinad to stay perfect as Artur Beterbiev undisputed showdown confirmed for October 12

On Saturday, Dmitry Bivol secured a win via a clinical sixth-round stoppage against Malik Zinad as he trains hard for the much-anticipated battle against Artur Beterbiev.

Bivol, who holds the titles of WBA and IBO champion, was set to fight Beterbiev, the unified champion of WBC, WBO, and IBF, for the undisputed light-heavyweight championship. However, Beterbiev was unable to compete due to an injury.

As professional pugilists, we have to be ready to alter our game plan at any given time. Luckily, I had sufficient opportunity to adjust my training regimen to match the particular style of my next opponent, who was not Beterbiev.

After Bivol emerged victorious, Turki Al-Sheikh, who chairs the General Authority for Entertainment in Saudi Arabia, stepped into the ring and announced that the two fighters will have a rematch on October 12, which will mark the beginning of Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia later this year.

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Bivol has kept his undefeated record of 23 wins and no losses. This marks his first knockout victory since 2018, as he previously won nine consecutive matches by unanimous decision.

Bivol confidently stated that he always had the ability to succeed and never second-guessed himself.

From the very beginning, there was a noticeable difference in skill level as Bivol landed a powerful left hook that knocked Zinad down, despite his persistence and boldness.

Zinad suffered his first loss as a professional boxer, now with a record of 22-1. Despite this setback, he remained confident and took the offensive approach against Bivol's challenging square stance.

Whenever Zinad showed off his quick hand movements, Bivol responded with equally rapid and powerful strikes. Bivol was in control of the match and his precision was so sharp that it caused Zinad's nose to bleed.

Despite Zinad's hard work and dedication, Bivol appeared calm and composed as he aimed to secure important rounds in preparation for a potential fight with Beterbiev.

In the end, it was his exceptional timing and strength that prevailed as he landed a fierce left punch followed by a left hook that shook his opponent. He then proceeded to attack relentlessly and caused the referee, Howard Foster, to intervene and end the match.