The International Boxing Association (IBA) President Umar Kremlev announced the organization’s intent to stage the trilogy bout between Dmitry Bivol (24-1, 12 KOs) and Artur Beterbiev (21-1, 20 KOs) in Moscow before the close of 2026.
Before any trilogy talks can take place, Bivol must first defend his unified WBA, IBF, and WBO titles against Michael Eifert on May 30. Kremlev stated that both Bivol and Beterbiev are expected to complete one successful interim fight before facing each other a third time.
The trilogy was originally delayed after Bivol underwent back surgery in August 2025. Having now completed a full rehabilitation, Bivol is reportedly back to 100% heading into his May defense.
The rivalry is currently deadlocked at 1-1. Beterbiev became the first man to defeat Bivol, capturing a majority decision to become the undisputed champion at 175 in 2024. Bivol adjusted his tactics in the immediate rematch to also become undisputed in February 2025.
“Both fighters are expected to complete one interim bout before facing each other again. Thereafter, by the end of the year, it should be possible to move forward with firm planning and organisation of the third fight. Our priority is to stage this trilogy in Russia. In my view, hosting such a bout is entirely feasible at present. Given the current global circumstances, Moscow represents a suitable and secure venue for an event of this scale, with all the necessary infrastructure in place to deliver it at the very highest level,” Kremlev said