I would also pick Beter. I think DM's defense was too leaky. I also think Beter is more versatile, as he's excellent both at applying pressure, or countering off the back foot. DM could only fight coming forward. Worth noting though that Michalczewski beat better fighters. The light heavyweight division was simply deeper back then. But head 2 head, I'm just more confident in picking Beterbiev. I think he stops DM circa 9 or 10. I think DM matches up better against Bivol, and I could see DM beating Bivol.
Both beter and bivol are the type of fighters where their opponents just seem hopeless. The matchup between them is fascinating.
I can't tell if Beter hasn't slipped, or maybe he has slipped, and his decline just isn't showing against limited palookas like Joe and Callum Smith. You would think at 38 a guy would be slipping, but... maybe not. He's only had 20 fights, and never been in a true struggle. Maybe he still is at his peak. I view Beterbiev as a better fighter than Bivol. I think Bivol's a little overrated. If Beter can show up in peak form, I pick him.
Bivol is a weird one to rate tbh. Remember at the beginning of his career when he was knocking everyone out and people thought he was a KO monster? Then he just transitioned into a decision machine. Its quite basic what he does, fighting at a particular range, but he's REALLY fucking good at it. I don't know if he's overrated though, it's hard to really criticise a guy who loses so few rounds. It's not like he's fought bums either, he has the best win out of him and Beterbiev.
It remains to be seen. Maybe I am underrating Bivol. Either way, it's the best current matchup to be made in the sport.
As far as what? Good matchup. If we're talking fights that won't capture the eye of the general public, but facainate the boxing fanbase, then Crawford ennis is more interesting by far to me
