Alright, let’s talk about something that’s been bugging me for a while – did Bivol and Usyk ever throw down in the amateur scene? I mean, these two are beasts now, but what about back in the day? So, I put on my detective hat and started digging.
First, I hit up the usual spots – you know, boxing forums, old news articles, the works. I found some folks saying they knew each other, even did some “sparring” but nothing serious. I figured, there has to be more. So, I kept on going.
Then, I stumbled upon this golden nugget – a tournament called “Russia vs Ukraine Amber Gloves” from way back in 2007. It was then when Beterbiev was 22 and Usyk was only 20. Boom! Turns out, Beterbiev and Usyk actually fought, but no one mentioned anything about Bivol and Usyk. It is said that Beterbiev won that one by points.
I was like a dog with a bone, I just couldn’t let it go. I searched everywhere for footage. Sadly, there seems to be no video of that Beterbiev-Usyk fight. Bummer, right?
Here’s what I put together:
- Beterbiev and Usyk definitely fought in the amateurs. It was in a 2007 tournament when they are young. Beterbiev came out on top.
- No solid proof of a Bivol-Usyk amateur fight. Lots of talk about them knowing each other, but no actual record of a fight between these two.
So, there you have it. It seems like Usyk faced Beterbiev in the amateurs, but as for Bivol, the mystery continues. Maybe they sparred, maybe they didn’t. If anyone out there has the inside scoop or, even better, some footage, hit me up! I’d love to finally crack this case.
This whole thing just goes to show, the boxing world is full of surprises. You think you know a guy’s history, and then bam! You’re down a rabbit hole of old tournaments and rumors. Keeps things interesting, I guess!
And hey, even without a Bivol-Usyk amateur showdown, both of these guys are incredible fighters today. It would be awesome to see them go at it now, wouldn’t it? Maybe someday…
