Former undisputed light-heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev is targeting two fighters in particular ahead of his return to the ring.
The 40-year-old from Russia has been inactive since he suffered the first defeat of his career in his rematch with countryman Dmitry Bivol back in February of 2025.
Beterbiev was pencilled in to make his long-awaited return to action against America’s Deon Nicholson in November but the bout was later cancelled for reasons that remain unknown.
Speaking to the media recently, Beterbiev revealed that he is still interested in a potential trilogy clash with Bivol, as he claims he is ‘focused’ on sharing the ring with his rival once again.
“I am now more focused on the trilogy. Our fight will be most interesting in Moscow.”
Another potential option for Beterbiev could be a showdown with David Benavidez, who currently holds the WBC world title at 175lbs.
The 40-year-old revealed that he would also be open to facing ‘The Mexican Monster’ in the future, as he admits he is fuelled by the idea of ‘getting his titles back’.
“Of course I want to fight with Benavidez. It’s very important for me to win my titles back. [Cruiserweight is also] interesting.”
Benavidez was last in action back in November when he stopped Britain’s Anthony Yarde in the seventh round of their clash in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Should Beterbiev secure a trilogy clash with Bivol, the winner could go on to face Benavidez in a showdown which would crown a new undisputed light-heavyweight champion.
