On Saturday, May 7, 2022, boxing fans around the world witnessed an epic battle between two of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, Canelo Álvarez and Dmitry Bivol. The highly anticipated light heavyweight title fight lived up to the hype, as both fighters displayed their exceptional skills and determination throughout the 12-round contest.
Álvarez, a four-division world champion, was the heavy favorite going into the fight. He had a record of 57-1-2, with 39 knockouts, and had not lost a fight since 2013. Bivol, on the other hand, was the reigning WBA light heavyweight champion and had a record of 19-0, with 11 knockouts. He was known for his excellent defense and counterpunching ability.
Canelo vs Bivol: Who Won?
Here are 10 important points about the Canelo Álvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol fight:
- Highly anticipated light heavyweight title fight
- Canelo Álvarez, four-division world champion
- Dmitry Bivol, reigning WBA light heavyweight champion
- Álvarez the heavy favorite going into the fight
- Bivol known for excellent defense and counterpunching
- Fight lived up to the hype, both fighters displayed exceptional skills
- Álvarez aggressive, Bivol countered effectively
- Bivol landed cleaner, more effective punches
- Judges scored the fight 115-113, 115-113, 118-110 for Bivol
- Bivol retained his WBA light heavyweight title
In the end, it was Bivol who emerged victorious, winning the fight by unanimous decision. The judges scored the fight 115-113, 115-113, and 118-110 in favor of Bivol. With this victory, Bivol retained his WBA light heavyweight title and handed Álvarez his second professional loss.
Highly anticipated light heavyweight title fight
The Canelo Álvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol fight was highly anticipated for several reasons:
-
Two of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world
Both Canelo Álvarez and Dmitry Bivol are considered to be among the best boxers in the world, regardless of weight class. Álvarez is a four-division world champion and has defeated some of the biggest names in boxing, including Gennady Golovkin and Miguel Cotto. Bivol is the reigning WBA light heavyweight champion and has a perfect professional record.
-
Rare matchup of elite fighters in their primes
Both Álvarez and Bivol are in their primes and are at the peak of their powers. This made the fight even more intriguing, as it was a rare opportunity to see two of the best fighters in the world face off against each other.
-
Clash of styles
Álvarez and Bivol have very different fighting styles. Álvarez is known for his aggressive, come-forward style, while Bivol is known for his excellent defense and counterpunching ability. This made the fight difficult to predict, as it was unclear how each fighter would be able to adapt to the other's style.
-
High stakes
The fight had high stakes for both fighters. Álvarez was looking to become a five-division world champion, while Bivol was looking to defend his title and establish himself as one of the top fighters in the world. The winner of the fight would also be in a prime position to face off against other top light heavyweights, such as Artur Beterbiev and Joe Smith Jr.
All of these factors combined to make the Canelo Álvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol fight one of the most highly anticipated boxing matches of the year.
Canelo Álvarez, four-division world champion
Canelo Álvarez is one of the most successful and popular boxers of his generation. He has won world championships in four different weight classes, from light middleweight to light heavyweight. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
-
Undefeated record from 2013 to 2022
Álvarez went on an incredible undefeated streak from 2013 to 2022, winning 16 fights in a row. This streak included victories over some of the biggest names in boxing, such as Gennady Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, and Julio César Chávez Jr.
-
Unified light middleweight champion
Álvarez became the unified light middleweight champion in 2013 by defeating Austin Trout. He defended his titles successfully against Alfredo Angulo, Erislandy Lara, and James Kirkland.
-
Middleweight champion
Álvarez moved up to middleweight in 2015 and won the WBC title by defeating Miguel Cotto. He defended his title successfully against Amir Khan, Liam Smith, and Gennady Golovkin (in a controversial draw).
-
Super middleweight champion
Álvarez moved up to super middleweight in 2019 and won the WBA title by defeating Rocky Fielding. He defended his title successfully against Callum Smith and Billy Joe Saunders.
Álvarez's impressive resume and accomplishments made him the heavy favorite going into the fight against Dmitry Bivol. However, Bivol proved to be too much for Álvarez, and handed him his second professional loss.
Dmitry Bivol, reigning WBA light heavyweight champion
Dmitry Bivol is a Russian boxer who has held the WBA light heavyweight title since 2017. He is known for his excellent defense, counterpunching ability, and powerful jab. Bivol has a perfect professional record of 20-0, with 11 knockouts.
Bivol began his boxing career in 2014 and quickly rose through the ranks. He won the WBA interim light heavyweight title in 2016 and became the full champion in 2017 after defeating Trent Broadhurst. Bivol has successfully defended his title five times, against the likes of Isaac Chilemba, Jean Pascal, and Umar Salamov.
Bivol is a highly skilled boxer with a well-rounded skillset. He is known for his excellent footwork and head movement, which allow him to avoid his opponent's punches. He is also a very good counterpuncher, and is able to land clean, powerful shots while his opponent is attacking.
In the fight against Canelo Álvarez, Bivol used his skills to full effect. He was able to avoid Álvarez's power punches and land his own countershots. Bivol also used his jab to keep Álvarez at bay and control the distance. In the end, Bivol won the fight by unanimous decision, handing Álvarez his second professional loss.
Bivol's victory over Álvarez was a major upset, but it also served to highlight Bivol's skills and potential. He is now considered to be one of the best light heavyweights in the world, and is a potential threat to anyone in the division.
Álvarez the heavy favorite going into the fight
Canelo Álvarez was the heavy favorite going into the fight against Dmitry Bivol for several reasons:
-
Impressive resume and accomplishments
Álvarez has an impressive resume, having won world championships in four different weight classes. He has also defeated some of the biggest names in boxing, including Gennady Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, and Julio César Chávez Jr.
-
Undefeated record from 2013 to 2022
Álvarez went on an incredible undefeated streak from 2013 to 2022, winning 16 fights in a row. This streak included victories over some of the biggest names in boxing, such as Gennady Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, and Julio César Chávez Jr.
-
Size advantage
Álvarez is a naturally bigger fighter than Bivol. He has a reach advantage of 2 inches and a height advantage of 3 inches. This gave Álvarez a significant advantage in the fight, as he was able to keep Bivol at bay with his jab and land power punches from a distance.
-
Experience advantage
Álvarez has more experience fighting at the highest level than Bivol. He has fought some of the best fighters in the world, including Gennady Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, and Julio César Chávez Jr. Bivol, on the other hand, had only fought a handful of top-level opponents.
Despite all of these advantages, Álvarez was unable to defeat Bivol. Bivol's excellent defense, counterpunching ability, and powerful jab proved to be too much for Álvarez. In the end, Bivol won the fight by unanimous decision, handing Álvarez his second professional loss.
Bivol known for excellent defense and counterpunching
Dmitry Bivol is known for his excellent defense and counterpunching ability. He is able to avoid his opponent's punches with his footwork and head movement, and he is able to land clean, powerful shots while his opponent is attacking.
-
Excellent footwork and head movement
Bivol has excellent footwork and head movement, which allow him to avoid his opponent's punches. He is able to slip punches, duck under punches, and move out of range quickly. This makes it very difficult for his opponents to hit him clean.
-
Quick and powerful counterpuncher
Bivol is a very quick and powerful counterpuncher. He is able to land clean, powerful shots while his opponent is attacking. He often uses his opponent's momentum against them, and is able to generate a lot of power on his counterpunches.
-
Good timing and anticipation
Bivol has good timing and anticipation, which allows him to see his opponent's punches coming and react accordingly. He is able to slip punches, duck under punches, and move out of range quickly. He is also able to land his counterpunches at the perfect moment, when his opponent is most vulnerable.
-
High ring IQ
Bivol has a high ring IQ, which allows him to adapt to his opponent's style and game plan. He is able to make adjustments during the fight, and is able to find ways to exploit his opponent's weaknesses. This makes him a very dangerous opponent, as he is able to change his tactics and strategies on the fly.
Bivol's excellent defense and counterpunching ability were on full display in his fight against Canelo Álvarez. Bivol was able to avoid Álvarez's power punches and land his own countershots. In the end, Bivol won the fight by unanimous decision, handing Álvarez his second professional loss.
Fight lived up to the hype, both fighters displayed exceptional skills
The fight between Canelo Álvarez and Dmitry Bivol lived up to the hype, as both fighters displayed exceptional skills and determination throughout the 12-round contest.
-
High level of technical skill
Both Álvarez and Bivol are highly skilled boxers with excellent technique. They both have fast hands, good footwork, and powerful punches. This made for a very technical fight, with both fighters landing clean shots and avoiding each other's punches.
-
Great stamina and conditioning
Both Álvarez and Bivol have excellent stamina and conditioning. They were both able to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the 12-round fight. This allowed them to push each other to the limit and put on a great show for the fans.
-
Heart and determination
Both Álvarez and Bivol showed great heart and determination in the fight. They both refused to give up, even when they were hurt or tired. This made for a very exciting fight, as both fighters were always looking for the knockout.
-
Adjustments and adaptability
Both Álvarez and Bivol were able to make adjustments and adapt to each other's styles during the fight. They both showed that they are intelligent fighters who are able to learn and adapt on the fly. This made for a very dynamic fight, as both fighters were constantly changing their tactics and strategies.
In the end, it was Bivol who emerged victorious, winning the fight by unanimous decision. However, both fighters deserve credit for putting on a great show for the fans. The fight lived up to the hype, and both fighters displayed exceptional skills and determination.
Álvarez aggressive, Bivol countered effectively
In the fight, Canelo Álvarez was the aggressor, while Dmitry Bivol was the counterpuncher. Álvarez was constantly moving forward, trying to land his power punches. Bivol, on the other hand, was more patient and waited for his opportunities to counterattack.
-
Álvarez's aggressive style
Álvarez is known for his aggressive fighting style. He likes to press his opponents and land his power punches. He is also very good at cutting off the ring and trapping his opponents against the ropes.
-
Bivol's counterpunching ability
Bivol is a very good counterpuncher. He is able to land clean, powerful shots while his opponent is attacking. He is also very good at timing his punches and landing them at the perfect moment.
-
Bivol's footwork and head movement
Bivol's excellent footwork and head movement allowed him to avoid Álvarez's power punches and land his own countershots. He was able to slip punches, duck under punches, and move out of range quickly. This made it very difficult for Álvarez to hit him clean.
-
Bivol's patience and composure
Bivol showed great patience and composure in the fight. He did not get flustered when Álvarez was pressing him and landing punches. He stayed calm and waited for his opportunities to counterattack. This allowed him to land some of the cleanest and most effective punches of the fight.
In the end, it was Bivol's counterpunching ability, footwork, head movement, patience, and composure that allowed him to defeat Álvarez. He was able to avoid Álvarez's power punches and land his own countershots. This allowed him to win the fight by unanimous decision.
Bivol landed cleaner, more effective punches
One of the key factors in Dmitry Bivol's victory over Canelo Álvarez was that he landed cleaner, more effective punches. Bivol was able to land more punches overall, and his punches were more accurate and powerful.
-
Bivol's accuracy
Bivol landed a higher percentage of his punches than Álvarez. This is because Bivol was more patient and selective with his punches. He didn't throw as many punches as Álvarez, but he landed a higher percentage of the punches that he did throw.
-
Bivol's power
Bivol's punches were also more powerful than Álvarez's. This is because Bivol is a naturally bigger fighter than Álvarez. He also has better technique and is able to generate more power on his punches.
-
Bivol's timing
Bivol's timing was also excellent. He was able to land his punches at the perfect moment, when Álvarez was most vulnerable. This allowed Bivol to land some very clean and effective punches.
-
Bivol's variety of punches
Bivol also had a wider variety of punches than Álvarez. He was able to land punches from all angles and distances. This made it very difficult for Álvarez to defend himself.
In the end, it was Bivol's cleaner, more effective punches that allowed him to defeat Álvarez. He was able to land more punches overall, and his punches were more accurate, powerful, and well-timed. This allowed him to win the fight by unanimous decision.
Judges scored the fight 115-113, 115-113, 118-110 for Bivol
The judges scored the fight 115-113, 115-113, and 118-110 in favor of Dmitry Bivol. This means that two of the judges scored the fight 115-113 for Bivol, while the third judge scored the fight 118-110 for Bivol.
The 115-113 scorecards indicate that the judges thought that Bivol won the fight by a narrow margin. They gave Bivol credit for landing the cleaner, more effective punches, and for his excellent defense. They also gave Álvarez credit for his aggression and power, but they felt that Bivol did more to win the fight.
The 118-110 scorecard indicates that the judge thought that Bivol won the fight by a wider margin. This judge likely gave Bivol credit for his dominance in the fight. Bivol was the aggressor for most of the fight, and he landed the more effective punches. Álvarez had some moments of success, but he was never able to really trouble Bivol.
In the end, the judges' decision was unanimous. All three judges agreed that Bivol had done enough to win the fight. This was a well-deserved victory for Bivol, who showed that he is one of the best light heavyweights in the world.
Some people have questioned the judges' decision, arguing that Álvarez should have won the fight. However, the judges' decision was based on the punches that were landed, and Bivol clearly landed the cleaner, more effective punches. Bivol also showed better defense and ring generalship. In the end, the judges made the right decision in awarding the fight to Bivol.
Bivol retained his WBA light heavyweight title
With his victory over Canelo Álvarez, Dmitry Bivol retained his WBA light heavyweight title. This is a significant achievement, as Bivol is now one of the few boxers to have defeated Álvarez.
-
Bivol's dominant performance
Bivol put on a dominant performance against Álvarez. He landed the cleaner, more effective punches throughout the fight. He also showed excellent defense and ring generalship. In the end, Bivol won the fight by unanimous decision, and he retained his WBA light heavyweight title.
-
Bivol's status as a top light heavyweight
Bivol's victory over Álvarez further solidified his status as one of the top light heavyweights in the world. He is now the only boxer to have defeated Álvarez at light heavyweight. Bivol is also the first boxer to defeat Álvarez by unanimous decision.
-
Bivol's future prospects
Bivol's victory over Álvarez has opened up a number of exciting possibilities for his future. He is now in a position to face other top light heavyweights, such as Artur Beterbiev and Joe Smith Jr. Bivol could also move up to heavyweight and challenge for a world title in that division.
-
The future of the light heavyweight division
Bivol's victory over Álvarez has also shaken up the light heavyweight division. Álvarez was previously considered to be the top light heavyweight in the world, but Bivol's victory has shown that he is the real deal. The light heavyweight division is now one of the most exciting divisions in boxing, and Bivol is one of the fighters to watch.
Bivol's victory over Álvarez was a major upset, but it was also a well-deserved victory. Bivol showed that he is a world-class boxer and one of the best light heavyweights in the world. He is now in a position to challenge for even bigger things in the future.
FAQ
Who won the fight between Canelo Álvarez and Dmitry Bivol?
Dmitry Bivol won the fight by unanimous decision.
Who is Dmitry Bivol?
Dmitry Bivol is a Russian boxer who has held the WBA light heavyweight title since 2017. He is known for his excellent defense, counterpunching ability, and powerful jab.
What was the significance of Bivol's victory over Álvarez?
Bivol's victory over Álvarez was a major upset, as Álvarez was the heavy favorite going into the fight. It was also the first time that Álvarez had lost a fight since 2013.
What are Bivol's future prospects?
Bivol is now in a position to face other top light heavyweights, such as Artur Beterbiev and Joe Smith Jr. He could also move up to heavyweight and challenge for a world title in that division.
What does Bivol's victory mean for the light heavyweight division?
Bivol's victory has shaken up the light heavyweight division. Álvarez was previously considered to be the top light heavyweight in the world, but Bivol's victory has shown that he is the real deal. The light heavyweight division is now one of the most exciting divisions in boxing.
Who are some other top light heavyweights?
Some other top light heavyweights include Artur Beterbiev, Joe Smith Jr., Callum Smith, and Joshua Buatsi.
Where can I watch Bivol's next fight?
Bivol's next fight will be broadcast on DAZN.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ
These are just a few of the questions that people have been asking about Dmitry Bivol and his victory over Canelo Álvarez. Bivol is a rising star in the boxing world, and he is sure to be a major force in the light heavyweight division for years to come.
Now that you know who won the fight between Canelo Álvarez and Dmitry Bivol, here are a few tips for watching your next boxing match:
Tips
Here are a few tips for watching your next boxing match:
Learn the basics of boxing.
Before you watch a boxing match, it's helpful to learn the basics of the sport. This includes understanding the different punches, the scoring system, and the different ways that a fight can end. You can learn about boxing by reading books, watching videos, or taking a boxing class.
Pay attention to the fighters' styles.
Every boxer has their own unique style. Some boxers are aggressive and like to press their opponents, while others are more patient and like to counterpunch. Pay attention to the fighters' styles and try to predict how the fight will play out.
Watch the fight closely.
Boxing is a fast-paced sport, so it's important to watch the fight closely. Pay attention to the punches that the fighters are landing, and also pay attention to the fighters' body language. This will help you to understand who is winning the fight and who is in trouble.
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
If you're watching a boxing match with friends or family, don't be afraid to ask questions about the fight. This is a great way to learn more about the sport and to get different perspectives on the fight.
Closing Paragraph for Tips
These are just a few tips for watching your next boxing match. By following these tips, you can make sure that you have a great time and that you learn something new about the sport of boxing.
Now that you know how to watch a boxing match, you're ready to enjoy the next big fight.
Conclusion
Summary of Main Points
In this article, we discussed the fight between Canelo Álvarez and Dmitry Bivol. We learned that Bivol won the fight by unanimous decision, becoming the first boxer to defeat Álvarez since 2013.
We also learned about Bivol's excellent defense, counterpunching ability, and powerful jab. We discussed how these skills helped him to defeat Álvarez, who is one of the best boxers in the world.
Finally, we provided some tips for watching your next boxing match. We encouraged readers to learn the basics of boxing, pay attention to the fighters' styles, watch the fight closely, and don't be afraid to ask questions.
Closing Message
Boxing is a great sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're a casual fan or a hardcore enthusiast, there's something for everyone in boxing. So next time you have the chance, tune in to a boxing match and see what all the excitement is about.
Who knows, you might just find yourself a new favorite sport.
Thanks for reading!