Dmitry Bivol, a boxer born in Kyrgyzstan, has become one of the contenders for the title of Fighter of the Year according to The Ring.
He is currently 35 years old and holds titles from the International Boxing Federation (IBF), the World Boxing Organization (WBO), and the World Boxing Association (WBA). His achievements include 24 wins (12 by knockout) and one loss. In 2022, Bivol was already awarded the title of "Fighter of the Year" by the same publication. His amateur career boasts numerous accolades, including gold at the World Martial Arts Games in 2013 and a silver medal at the Universiade in the same year.
In the spring of last year, he lost his title when the World Boxing Council (WBC) stripped him of the belt for refusing to defend it against David Benavidez, who became the new champion. However, the WBO, WBA, and IBF organizations confirmed that they do not intend to take his titles away, emphasizing the need to defend the championship belt.
In February 2025, Bivol returned to the ring and defeated Beterbiev in a match held in Riyadh at the Kingdom Arena. This fight ended with a majority decision from the judges (114-114, 116-112, 115-113), allowing him to reclaim the WBA belt and win the IBF and WBO titles.
The rematch between Bivol and Beterbiev has been nominated for "Fight of the Year" by The Ring. The magazine's website also features other categories such as "Best Female Fighter," "Knockout of the Year," "Round of the Year," "Upset of the Year," "Trainer of the Year," and "Prospect of the Year." The awards ceremony will take place on January 30 in New York, prior to The Ring 6 boxing evening on January 31 at the famous Madison Square Garden.
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