Artur Beterbiev Pivoting From Trilogy

Instead, Bivol (currently holding the WBA and IBF titles) was ordered to face Michael Eifert (13-1, 5 KOs) as his IBF mandatory. Complicating matters further, Bivol vacated his WBC title. To avoid a purse bid with newly elevated champion David Benavidez, who had previously held the interim belt. Benavidez, in turn, will make his maiden title defense against two time challenger Anthony Yarde in the co main event of Ring IV.

Meanwhile, Beterbiev will look to stay sharp against Nicholson (22-1, 18 KOs). A rising contender who enters the biggest fight of his career riding an eight-fight winning streak. The 34 year old American has stopped five of those opponents inside the distance since suffering a third round knockout loss to Efetobor Apochi in 2021.

Nicholson’s recent form includes a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Sergio Jimenez and a fourth round TKO over Devonte Williams on the Deontay Wilder Tyrell Herndon undercard this past June. While lacking top tier opposition on his résumé, Nicholson represents a dangerous challenge for a Beterbiev whose age and recent layoff raise legitimate questions about his durability moving forward.

According to The Ring’s Mike Coppinger, Beterbiev had received Turki Alalshikh’s blessing to fight in his native Russia. However, plans have shifted, and he’ll now remain on the Saudi-backed Ring IV event. Adding star power to a card that continues to grow in significance for the 175 pound division.

Undercard forming

Elsewhere on the bill, negotiations between Callum Smith and David Morrell are underway for the WBO interim light heavyweight title. With that bout also expected to land on the card should terms be finalized in time.

As Beterbiev prepares for his 23rd pro bout and looks to maintain his perfect knockout record on U.S. opponents (8-0, 8 KOs) the light heavyweight landscape remains as chaotic as ever, with legacy defining fights still on the table heading into 2026.