Russian-Canadian boxer Artur Beterbiev has been ordered to defend his IBF light-heavyweight title against mandatory challenger Michael Eifert.
This comes a day after former WBA title holder Dmitry Bivol appealed to all four sanctioning bodies to back his attempt at securing an immediate rematch.
Beterbiev, 39, unified the light-heavyweight titles and became the division’s undisputed champion, by securing a split-decision victory over Bivol at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Saturday.
This forced the 33-year-old Bivol to immediately send a request through his lawyer to the WBO, WBA, IBF and WBC, on Wednesday, with the purpose of asking for their support in claiming a rematch against Beterbiev.
However, things have taken a different turn as the IBF (International Boxing Federation) has now officially instructed Beterbiev to commence negotiations with mandatory challenger Eifert.
German Eifert earned this status by defeating 40-year-old Jean Pascal by a unanimous decision after a 12-round fight on March 16, 2023.
The IBF, however, added that Beterbiev has the chance to request an “exception” for a voluntary defense, which the body would consider.
Beterbiev became the division’s first four-belt world champion as he was taken to the distance for the first time by Bivol, who lost for the first time in his 24-fight career.
What are your thoughts on Beterbiev’s upcoming defense against Eifert? Share your comments below!
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