Dmitry Bivol Maps Out Hit List Featuring Mega Rematches and Cruiserweight Ambitions

Dmitry Bivol is in no rush—but he is thinking big.

The reigning unified light-heavyweight champion has outlined a future that could include some of boxing’s most lucrative rematches, a long-awaited undisputed clash with David Benavidez, and even a bold move up to cruiserweight in pursuit of another world title.

Bivol, 35, has not fought since February 2025, when he defeated long-time rival Artur Beterbiev via majority decision to settle their feud and crown himself the undisputed king at 175 pounds. That victory, however, was followed by an extended period away from the ring after the Russian standout underwent back surgery—a recovery process that ultimately reshaped the championship landscape.

WBC Title Vacated, Benavidez Elevated

During Bivol’s rehabilitation, the WBC ordered him to defend his title against mandatory challenger David Benavidez. Unable to comply while recovering, Bivol made the difficult decision to vacate the belt, allowing Benavidez to be elevated to full WBC champion.

While the move cost Bivol his undisputed status, it did not dampen his long-term ambitions.

Now holding the WBA, IBF and WBO titles, Bivol is expected to return later this year in a mandatory defense against Germany’s Michael Eifert. The IBF contender represents a credible comeback opponent, particularly after more than a year of inactivity, but Bivol has openly acknowledged that his most significant opportunities lie further down the road.

Big Fights Likely in Late 2026

Speaking with Fight Hub TV, Bivol suggested that his most lucrative and legacy-defining bouts are more likely to materialize toward the end of 2026 rather than immediately upon his return.

At the top of that list is a potential undisputed showdown with Benavidez, provided both fighters continue to win. Benavidez, however, has business of his own to attend to first. The Mexican-American star is scheduled to move up in weight to face unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez in May, a bout that could significantly alter future matchmaking plans across multiple divisions.

If Benavidez emerges victorious and later returns to light-heavyweight, a clash with Bivol would rank among the most anticipated fights in boxing.

Trilogy With Beterbiev Still on the Table

Another option remains close to home: a third fight with Artur Beterbiev.

Their rivalry is widely regarded as one of the defining matchups of the modern light-heavyweight era. With one win apiece and both contests delivering high-level tactical drama, a trilogy bout would offer a natural conclusion to their story—and a guaranteed blockbuster.

Bivol confirmed that the idea remains firmly in consideration, should the timing and circumstances align.

Canelo Rematch Resurfaces

Perhaps the most commercially explosive possibility is a rematch with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.

Bivol famously outboxed the Mexican superstar in 2022, handing Alvarez one of the most decisive losses of his career. Since then, speculation about a second meeting has never fully disappeared.

While Alvarez has often downplayed interest in another light-heavyweight challenge, Bivol indicated that the door remains open if the opportunity presents itself.

A rematch would likely require complex negotiations and favorable conditions, but from a global pay-per-view standpoint, few fights could rival its appeal.

Eyeing Cruiserweight: “For My Soul”

The most surprising revelation, however, was Bivol’s growing interest in moving up to cruiserweight.

Rather than framing it as a financial decision, the champion described the idea as a personal challenge—one that resonates deeply with his competitive instincts.

“Also, in my head, I would like to move up to get the chance to fight for another belt, in another weight class,” Bivol said. “For my soul, it would be better to move up [to cruiserweight].”

Among the names mentioned were reigning champions Jai Opetaia and Noel Mikaelian, as well as the eventual winner of Ramirez vs. Benavidez. A successful transition would place Bivol among a rare group of fighters to win world titles across multiple divisions while maintaining elite technical consistency.

Mandatory Defense Comes First

Before any of those ambitions can be realized, Bivol must first handle his immediate obligations.

His ordered bout with IBF mandatory challenger Michael Eifert is expected to head to a purse bid hearing soon, a step that would finalize the terms of his return to the ring.

While Eifert may not carry the same star power as Bivol’s dream opponents, the matchup serves as a necessary bridge—one that could reestablish Bivol’s rhythm and set the stage for a defining final chapter of his career.

For now, the unified champion remains patient, calculating his next moves carefully. Whether at light-heavyweight or cruiserweight, Dmitry Bivol is clearly positioning himself for fights that extend beyond belts—and into boxing history.