Breaking News: Former rival of Roy Jones Jr offers his prediction for the highly…

The countdown is nearly over, and soon the talking will stop as boxing fans will finally witness Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol face off for their light-heavyweight championship, live on DAZN Pay-Per-View/

What makes this matchup so captivating is its unpredictability, as a skilled boxer goes up against one of the sport’s hardest punchers.

Clinton Woods, a former light-heavyweight champion and rival of Roy Jones Jr., shared his thoughts with SportsBoom ahead of the big showdown in Riyadh.

Woods views the fight as a clash between two fighters at their peak, but he’s slightly favoring one over the other.

“The best part about this fight is that both guys are at the top of their game,” Woods said.

“They’re both old-school fighters too. By that, I mean they dedicate themselves entirely to the sport, working tirelessly every day.

“What makes this so interesting is that the only light-heavyweight who can beat Beterbiev is Bivol, and the only one who can beat Bivol is Beterbiev.

“For me, though, the more I think about it, I’m leaning towards Bivol. Why? It comes down to the old saying: ‘A good boxer will always beat a good puncher.’ There’s not much in it, but if I had to bet £1000 for charity, I’d go with Bivol.”

Woods’ preference for Bivol may stem from the age difference between the two fighters. Beterbiev is six years older, and Woods believes age can become a factor at any point in boxing.

“I have great respect for Artur, especially since he holds my old belt,” he added.

“Everyone who spars with him says every punch he throws hurts—just constant ‘thud, thud, thud.’

“My concern is that age will eventually catch up with him. It’s inevitable, but he’ll be in great shape.

“I’m not saying it will happen now, but in boxing, it can sneak up on you—even after a great performance—suddenly, it’s just not there anymore.”

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