Boxing manager Sampson Lewkowicz says rumors of an imminent Dmitry Bivol-David Benavidez showdown are “fake news,” emphasizing that while he’d love to make the fight, no real talks are happening right now. Lewkowicz told BoxingScene he recently sent a formal proposal to Bivol’s lawyer, offering a range of dates from September to December, but has heard nothing back. Despite the buzz, he insists that’s the only communication so far – no “negotiations” have begun.
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Bivol, promoted by Matchroom, has kept busy with high-profile bouts under the Riyadh Season banner, most notably two fights against Artur Beterbiev that culminated in Bivol earning a decision in the rematch. Meanwhile, PBC’s Benavidez, who was ringside in Saudi Arabia scouting potential showdowns, remains keen on a shot at Bivol. The WBC has identified Benavidez as Bivol’s mandatory at light heavyweight, but Saudi interests reportedly prefer a trilogy between Bivol and Beterbiev instead.
Lewkowicz admits he hopes a Bivol-Benavidez clash can materialize. With both fighters standing as major forces at 175 lbs, it’s a matchup we have eagerly speculated about. For now, however, Lewkowicz says the silence from Bivol’s side indicates the fight remains an idea on paper rather than a done deal.
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