It took just 137 days for the two best light-heavyweights of their generation to once again square off.
While the first fight was a captivating contest of the highest level, the rematch was even better.
With no drawn out ring walks, the fighters raced to the ring. There was no bad blood in the build-up. This was strictly business – two warriors, generational greats, putting their bodies on the line in their quest for legendary status.
Bivol worked behind his jab and quick feet, two of his world-class attributes, to make a sharp start with eye-catching combinations and a counter right hand in the second.
The crowd – including legends Roberto Duran and Prince Naseem Hamed – were on their feet after Bivol landed combinations and Beterbiev connected thumping power shots in a third which showcased the best of both.
Canada-based Beterbiev planted his feet and unleashed monstrous rights. He staggered Bivol in the fifth with a menacing onslaught which ended with a right to the temple.
Bivol did not bemoan a first career loss four months ago – which many felt he won, and vowed to do better.
He regained his rhythm with crisper, cleaner punches and elegantly dancing out of range in the eighth and ninth.
Beterbiev, who has knocked out every other opponent apart from Bivol, remained a threat. But it was Bivol who confidently took the centre of the ring in the championship rounds.
“We need this now and can’t take any chances,” Beterbiev’s corner told him. He was fatigued and marked up but continued throwing until the final seconds.
There were no celebrations from either team at the end of the most gruelling fight.
It is time to rest up and do it all again. The public demand for a trilogy will be too much to ignore.
