Dmitry Bivol only needed 3 words to shatter Canelo’s invincible aura.
Dmitry Bivol etched his name into boxing history as the second man to defeat the seemingly indomitable Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez. The Russian light heavyweight champion delivered a masterclass performance that not only ended Canelo’s reign of dominance but also raised questions about the Mexican superstar’s ability to compete in higher weight classes.
A Career-Defining Victory
Canelo, an elite Mexican fighter with a record of 66 bouts and just one prior loss, had established himself as a pound-for-pound legend. In 2022, he took a bold leap to challenge Dmitry Bivol for his light heavyweight title, hoping to replicate the success he achieved in 2019 when he defeated Sergey Kovalev in the same division.
However, Bivol, with his impressive technical skills and larger frame, had other plans. Over 12 grueling rounds, the Russian systematically dismantled Canelo’s strategy, effectively neutralizing his power and imposing his size advantage. The judges scored the fight 115-113 in Bivol’s favor, marking a decisive victory that shocked the boxing world.
The Key to Bivol’s Success
Bivol’s victory was a testament to his exceptional technique, defense, and ring IQ. Utilizing a calculated jab, precise counters, and lateral movement, he prevented Canelo from landing his signature power punches.
When asked about Canelo’s much-celebrated power during the post-fight press conference, Bivol gave a brutally honest assessment:
“Good, but limited.”
These three words encapsulated Bivol’s experience in the ring with Canelo. He acknowledged Canelo’s strength but questioned its effectiveness at light heavyweight, stating:
“He has good speed, good power, good awareness, but some fighters are born with natural strength. I didn’t feel that kind of power from him. He puts everything into each punch, but it’s not innate power.”
Bivol’s remark wasn’t meant to discredit Canelo but rather to emphasize the difference between a natural light heavyweight and someone moving up in weight.
Aftermath and Career Trajectories
Following the loss, Canelo returned to his natural weight class at 168 pounds, where he has since reasserted his dominance. With five consecutive victories as the undisputed super middleweight champion, Canelo remains a formidable force in boxing. His next bout is scheduled for May 2025, and fans eagerly anticipate another showcase of his skills.
Meanwhile, Bivol has continued to take on the toughest challenges in his division. He recently faced Artur Beterbiev in a high-stakes unification bout but lost on points in a closely contested battle. Despite the setback, Bivol’s performance against Canelo remains one of the highlights of his career and a defining moment in modern boxing.
The Legacy of Their Clash
The fight between Dmitry Bivol and Canelo Alvarez highlighted the challenges of moving up in weight classes, even for a fighter of Canelo’s caliber. It also underscored Bivol’s position as one of the sport’s most technically skilled light heavyweights.
While Canelo’s aura of invincibility remains intact in the super middleweight division, his loss to Bivol serves as a reminder that boxing is as much about weight, style, and strategy as it is about power and skill.
“Good, but limited”—three words from Bivol that redefined Canelo’s mythos, proving that even the best have their limits.
