The WBC denied Beterbiev a trilogy with Bivol and has appointed a new opponent.

President of the World Boxing Council (WBC) Mauricio Sulaiman stated to "Match TV" that the third fight between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev can wait, as the WBC has another mandatory challenger, as reported by Sports.kz.

In the main event of the boxing evening in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Bivol defeated Beterbiev by unanimous decision. Bivol became the undisputed world champion in the light heavyweight division, claiming, among others, the WBC title. The mandatory challenger for this title is American David Benavidez, the WBC interim champion.

— It was a sensational performance by Bivol. An excellent fight at the highest level of technique and determination. A trilogy? David Benavidez is the mandatory challenger for the WBC, and he has already allowed two fights between Bivol and Beterbiev to take place. But now we must celebrate the remarkable fight and the fantastic tournament! — Sulaiman is quoted as saying.

The 28-year-old Benavidez is an undefeated boxer with 30 consecutive victories in the professional ring. The 34-year-old Bivol has 24 wins and one loss.