Beterbiev vs. Bivol: “Generational struggle” in Saudi Arabia – Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol speak out

Eddie Hearn predicted a “generational clash” as Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol expressed their opinions ahead of their undisputed light heavyweight bout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

WBO, WBC and IBF champion Beterbiev came in right at the limit at 12.7lb, while WBA titleholder Bivol weighed in at 12.6lb.

“This is a generational battle between two stone-cold competitors,” said Hearn of Matchroom, which promotes Bivol.

“Bivol has already slain the pound-for-pound king in (Saul 'Canelo') Alvarez, and that's what he wants more than anything.”

“I believe that Dmitry Bivol will be the undisputed champion tomorrow night.”

The undefeated pair meet on Saturday in a historic bout with all four light heavyweight belts on the line for the first time.

Roy Jones Jr. was the division's last undisputed champion. He achieved this status in 1999 and reigned until 2002, but that was during the Three Belt Era.

On a crowded stage, the three promoters involved in the event – Hearn, Frank Warren and Ben Shalom – fought for position and the primary middle spot between the two fighters competing against each other.

Heavyweights Frazer Clarke and Fabio Wardley will form the main support as they meet in a rematch after fighting to a draw in March.

British heavyweight champion Wardley weighed a pound less than in the previous encounter, tipping the scales at 17.4 pounds.

Clarke weighed 19st 5lb – 5lb more than seven months ago – making him 29lb heavier than his opponent.