Dmitry Bivol Returns Against a Challenger Few Fans Care About

The long delay came as Bivol and Artur Beterbiev fought twice before Bivol underwent back surgery and spent months recovering.

“I had to learn patience, but knowing what I was waiting for helped: A chance to fight for four belts. A fight like that is my dream since childhood. In the end, every bit of waiting was worth it,” said Eifert to The Ring about finally getting a world title shot. “It was a long wait, a real rollercoaster.”

Many fans have questioned whether Eifert belongs in a championship fight of this magnitude, particularly after such a long period of inactivity. The German believes he has already answered those doubts.

“Well, the IBF designated boxing legend and former world champion Jean Pascal to face me in a world title eliminator. I went to his hometown of Montreal, Canada, and clearly beat him,” said Bivol.

“What more can I do? [Winning the eliminator] gives me the right to challenge the champion.”

Bivol (24-1, 12 KOs) enters the fight as a heavy favorite. The 35-year-old holds The Ring, IBF, WBA, and WBO titles and remains one of the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters despite the debate that followed his majority decision win over Beterbiev in their rematch.

Eifert acknowledges the challenge in front of him but says the opportunity is worth the risk.

“I think everyone in boxing agrees that Bivol is an almost flawless boxer. One of the best light heavyweights the sport has ever seen. A true legend and a great champion.

“I have nothing to lose. I believe in myself and have worked my whole life towards this day. I will leave my heart in that ring to dethrone Dmitry. Everything else, we will see in the ring,” said Eifert.