Eddie Hearn is said to have initiated talks for a June fight between Dmitry Bivol, who holds the WBA title, and Artur Beterbiev, the unified champion, for an undisputed bout in Abu Dhabi.
While that may be the case, Hearn has expressed his desire to pair Bivol (21-0, 12 KOs) against his fighter, Joshua Buatsi.
This is because Beterbiev is observing Ramadan until April 21st, 2023, and it would be impractical for him to be ready for a June bout against Bivol.
Eddie Hearn has revealed that he is in talks to potentially make Dmitry Bivol vs Artur Beterbiev for the undisputed light-heavyweight world titles in June in Abu Dhabi. However, there are also talks for Bivol vs Joshua Buatsi, followed by the Canelo Alvarez rematch in September.
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) February 21, 2023
Since Buatsi, who is 29, is involved with DAZN, it makes the process of putting together a fight far less problematic. Beterbiev, however, is represented by Top Rank and fights on ESPN.
Boxing enthusiasts will not be eager to see Bivol compete with Buatsi since the latter is hardly a household name, nor has he fought any tough competition.
After all, there are serious question marks over DAZN’s value. Canelo Alvarez is facing the little-known John Ryder in Mexico on the platform.
Therefore, it appears that DAZN would not be willing to shell out a large sum of money to book a fight between Bivol and Buatsi since it would not attract a lot of new subscribers.
This, coupled with DAZN’s recent price hikes, has left Hearn with plenty to think about.
Social Media Reaction
eddie hearn cant make the big fights
— R26 (@R26TF) February 21, 2023
So in other words use Beterbiev’s name but just plan for 2 in-house fights (Buatsi and Canelo) and wait for Beterbiev to continue aging as he’s 38 already.
— Lewis Su (@Lewissu123) February 21, 2023
Eddie is turning quite the forked tongue car salesman. Best on the lot just for show but shining up and buffing out the dented ex rentals in the back. Oh and your monthly rate just tripled.
— Odd Man Out (@Ranbulz550) February 21, 2023