shaz619
Test Star
- Joined
- Mar 31, 2010
- Runs
- 36,497
- Post of the Week
- 7
Great performance from both Beterbiev and Bivol, very close fight; I gave Beterbiev the edge by a round or two for his pressure and stiffer shots, though Bivol’s work was a lot cleaner, both men have tremendous chins and took some real pomp in the fight. Bivol was well ahead early on due to his superior movement and lightning jab which have Beterbiev issues, then he settled in the second half, picked better shots and worked the body, with Bivol’s pace declining, he took more punishment but a lot less then prior opponents due to his exceptional defence. Bivol is a very boring fighter but this was probably his most fun fight, he is a very difficult fighter to open up, I also think Beterbiev (while he wasn’t loading up) power was impacted by the knee injury, he still has plenty there but I am not sure if it’s all available, he is bound to feel discomfort each time he turns the hips. A landmark victory nonetheless and Beterbiev deserves it.