Dmitry Bivol is starting to demand a lot of things, and it’s making it difficult for everyone to arrange a rematch with Canelo.
The much-anticipated rematch between Dmitry Bivol and Canelo Alvarez seems to be hitting roadblocks, and the finger-pointing has begun. According to insiders, Bivol’s increasing demands are creating complications in arranging the fight, leaving fans wondering if this high-profile matchup will ever materialize.
A History of Heated Competition
The tension stems from their first encounter, where Bivol delivered a masterclass performance to defeat Canelo in May 2022, retaining his WBA light heavyweight title. The bout was not only a shock to Canelo’s fan base but also solidified Bivol’s position as one of the top fighters in the division. Since then, the idea of a rematch has been a hot topic in the boxing world.
Canelo, known for his dominance across multiple weight classes, suffered a rare setback in that fight. For Bivol, it was a career-defining moment that elevated his status as a legitimate pound-for-pound contender. The stakes for a rematch are enormous, promising redemption for one fighter and validation for the other.
Bivol’s Rising Stock and Expectations
After his victory over Canelo, Bivol’s profile skyrocketed. With this newfound status, Bivol is reportedly pushing for a more advantageous deal for the rematch, including changes to the weight class, purse split, and even location. These demands reflect his confidence but also create logistical challenges for promoters and Canelo’s camp.
Among the rumored requests:
A fight at super middleweight (168 lbs): Bivol is said to be keen on testing himself at Canelo’s weight class, where the Mexican star holds all the belts.
A bigger purse: Given his victory in the first fight, Bivol believes he deserves a larger share of the revenue.
Venue preferences: Reports suggest Bivol wants the rematch to take place in a neutral location, rather than on Canelo’s home turf.
These demands showcase Bivol’s growing leverage in negotiations but also complicate the path to finalizing the bout.
Canelo’s Perspective
On the other hand, Canelo is eager to avenge his loss and reestablish himself as the pound-for-pound king. However, his camp reportedly views some of Bivol’s demands as excessive, potentially stalling negotiations. Canelo’s team maintains that the rematch should be fought under similar conditions to their first bout, emphasizing fairness and continuity.
“Canelo is ready to fight, but the conditions have to make sense,” an insider close to his team stated. The Mexican superstar, who has built his career on taking on the toughest challenges, is unlikely to shy away from a rematch but expects mutual respect in the negotiations.
What’s at Stake?
A rematch carries significant stakes for both fighters. For Bivol, it’s an opportunity to prove that his first victory wasn’t a fluke and to solidify his legacy as a dominant champion. A win at super middleweight would add an additional layer of greatness to his already impressive resume.
For Canelo, it’s a chance for redemption and to silence critics who have questioned his ability to handle elite light heavyweights. A victory would not only restore his aura of invincibility but also cement his position as one of the greatest fighters of his generation.
The Fans’ Frustration
Fans are growing impatient as negotiations drag on. The fight, expected to be one of the biggest events in boxing, could generate massive pay-per-view numbers and further elevate the sport’s profile. However, the longer the standoff continues, the greater the risk of interest waning.
Social media platforms are abuzz with debates over which fighter is responsible for the delays. Some blame Bivol’s demands, while others point to Canelo’s team’s unwillingness to compromise. The polarized opinions highlight just how much anticipation surrounds this potential rematch.
Conclusion
As Dmitry Bivol’s demands complicate negotiations, the potential for a rematch with Canelo Alvarez hangs in the balance. Both fighters have much to gain—and lose—if the fight comes together. Until then, the boxing world waits with bated breath, hoping for an agreement that brings this epic showdown back to life. With so much at stake, fans can only hope that the obstacles are overcome, and the two champions meet in the ring once more.
