Dmitry Bivol has relinquished his WBC light-heavyweight world title just six weeks after becoming the undisputed champion, as he sets his sights on a third showdown with rival Artur Beterbiev.
The 34-year-old Russian defeated Beterbiev on February 23 to avenge his earlier loss and claim the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF world titles.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed that Bivol vacated the title to prioritize another clash with the 40-year-old Beterbiev.
Their first two encounters were for the undisputed title, and a trilogy promises to reignite one of boxing’s fiercest rivalries.
The decision comes as the WBC had ordered Bivol to face top contender David Benavidez, with a purse bid scheduled for Tuesday. Benavidez, unbeaten in 30 bouts, has now been elevated to world champion status.
Liverpool’s Callum Smith, fresh off a victory over Joshua Buatsi, is among those vying to challenge Benavidez for the title.
