Oleksandr Usyk has shared how he scored the recent fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol.
Beterbiev and Bivol did battle in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in October, as the light-heavyweight division looked to crown the latest undisputed champion in boxing – a feat Usyk has achieved in both the cruiser and heavyweight classes.
It was a tight contest between the pair that went 12 rounds with Beterbiev claiming a majority decision to walk away with all four world titles.
Usyk knows well how close an undisputed battle can be, as his victory over Tyson Fury earlier this year ended in a split decision verdict in his favour.
Many figures within boxing disagreed on how they scored the light-heavyweight clash, but in an interview with Boxing King Media Usyk revealed that he believes Beterbiev – who he fought three times in the amateurs – deserved it.
“I watched the fight. I think Beterbiev won. For me, I say 6-6 for rounds, but the more important [rounds] was Beterbiev. Last two, last three rounds, 100% winner was Beterbiev.”
A rematch has been touted although there have been concerns raised over when it may potentially take place.
The situation again mirrors Usyk’s own – he will face off with Fury again on December 21. The IBF title won’t be on the line this time around after Usyk had to relinquish the belt for being unable to face his mandatory due to the contracted rematch, much to ‘The Gypsy King’s distaste.
