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Bivol Chooses Smith or Benavidez as Beterbiev Deal Falls

6/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Artur Beterbiev said his fight agreement with David Benavidez collapsed after Benavidez’s team withdrew.
After a back injury halted talks, Dmitry Bivol returned last month and beat IBF mandatory Michael Eifert.
Eddie Hearn said Bivol must choose soon between a WBO bout with Callum Smith or a fight with Benavidez, while WBO rankings list Beterbiev at No. 1.
A Bivol-Smith fight would make Smith champion if Bivol vacates.

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Story summary

Artur Beterbiev said his fight agreement with David Benavidez collapsed after Benavidez’s team withdrew.
After a back injury halted talks, Dmitry Bivol returned last month and beat IBF mandatory Michael Eifert.
Eddie Hearn said Bivol must choose soon between a WBO bout with Callum Smith or a fight with Benavidez, while WBO rankings list Beterbiev at No. 1.
A Bivol-Smith fight would make Smith champion if Bivol vacates.