Betting tips from AI for Dmitry Bivol vs David Benavidez, 31 December 2025.

This is a classic stylistic gamble: Dmitry Bivol is the polished, undisputed boxer with superior ring IQ and titles, but David Benavidez arrives undefeated, heavy-handed and riding a dominant 7th‑round TKO of Anthony Yarde. Sparring reports that Benavidez dropped Bivol with headgear and his 81% KO rate mean he can end rounds abruptly.
Bookmakers peg Bivol as the clear favorite at 1.27 while Benavidez sits at 3.90. Given Benavidez’s youth, size and recent stoppage form, the market may be underpricing his chance to land one decisive shot.
Prediction and edge: I back David Benavidez — a $1 wager on the +290 underdog offers the upside required for a profitable long‑term betting approach against a heavy favorite whose style can be nullified by power.

This WBC mandated clash between undisputed champion Dmitry Bivol and interim titlist David Benavidez presents a fascinating betting scenario. While Bivol is heavily favored at 1.27, the narrative surrounding Benavidez is too strong to ignore. Benavidez's camp boasts he dropped Bivol in sparring, predicting a brutal stoppage. With an undefeated 31-0 record and a massive 81% KO edge, Benavidez certainly possesses the power to back up such claims, as he recently made Anthony Yarde "look easy".

The "Mexican Monster" is clearly confident, eyeing Bivol's titles to go undisputed. Despite Bivol's recent strong return at 35 and avenging his loss to Beterbiev, the sheer aggression and punching power of Benavidez, coupled with his camp's psychological warfare, suggest he's being underestimated. The fan predictions, split 40/40 for decision wins and 20% for a Benavidez KO, indicate a much tighter contest than the odds imply.

Betting on Benavidez at 3.90 offers significant value. Given the strong claims of sparring dominance and Benavidez's devastating KO power, a 3.90 payout on the underdog makes this a profitable play against the heavily favored Bivol.

Bivol's technical prowess makes him the smart bet despite Benavidez's camp claims about sparring dominance. The 1.27 odds favor Bivol for good reason – his recent majority decision over Beterbiev demonstrated his elite boxing IQ and stamina even at 35 years old.

Benavidez brings impressive power with 25 KOs in 31 wins and his recent 7th-round TKO of Anthony Yarde showcases his finishing ability. However, Bivol's experience against top-tier competition gives him the edge. His 24-1 record speaks volumes, with his only loss now avenged against Beterbiev.

The 4-inch reach advantage for Benavidez is concerning, but Bivol's defensive skills should neutralize this threat. While Sampson Lewkowicz's claims about sparring sessions make for good headlines, actual fight night is a different story. Bivol's disciplined approach and championship experience should carry him to a decision victory in what promises to be a tactical chess match.

In the electrifying light heavyweight showdown, Dmitry Bivol stands as the undisputed champion, fresh off a gritty majority decision revenge win over Artur Beterbiev in February, bringing his record to 24-1. At 35, Bivol's technical mastery and ring IQ make him a nightmare for power punchers, having gone 4-1 in his last five bouts. Facing him is the undefeated David Benavidez (31-0, 25 KOs), the interim WBC titlist who's been on a tear, including a dominant seventh-round TKO of Anthony Yarde in Riyadh. Benavidez's camp is buzzing with claims of dropping Bivol in sparring sessions with headgear, and they're hungry to snag Bivol's IBF, WBA, and WBO belts for undisputed glory.

But don't buy the hype too quickly. Bivol's precision and footwork neutralized Beterbiev's bombs, and while Benavidez boasts an 81% KO rate and four-inch reach edge, Bivol's defense has proven ironclad against elite strikers. The WBC-mandated clash, with negotiations looming by April 8, screams blockbuster potential, but Bivol's experience as champ tips the scales. Fan splits are even at 40% for each via decision, with 20% eyeing a Benavidez KO—yet I'm betting on Bivol's savvy to outpoint the Monster.

Odds reflect this: Bivol at 1.27 is the favorite, Benavidez at 3.90 offers value for underdogs, and a draw at 19.00 is a longshot. For profitability on a $1 bet, ride the favorite—Bivol's path to victory feels secure in this title defense.

Dmitry Bivol defends his undisputed titles as the favorite at 1.27, but David Benavidez's camp is fired up, claiming he dropped Bivol in sparring and mocking his power. Benavidez, undefeated with 25 KOs, offers enticing value at 3.90 odds, backed by an 81% KO rate and a 4-inch reach edge.

Fresh off a dominant TKO of Anthony Yarde, Benavidez's aggression and youth contrast with Bivol's technical mastery after avenging his loss to Beterbiev. Fan predictions split evenly, but Benavidez's power could overwhelm Bivol's defense, making the underdog a smart bet for profit.

The upcoming clash between Dmitry Bivol and David Benavidez shapes up as a fascinating battle of styles, with both fighters bringing unique strengths into the ring. Bivol, the reigning undisputed champion, boasts a stellar 24-1 record and recently avenged his lone loss to Artur Beterbiev via majority decision. His technical precision and ability to adapt mid-fight make him a formidable opponent despite being the underdog at 1.27. On the other hand, Benavidez enters this bout riding high after a devastating 7th-round TKO of Anthony Yarde. With an impressive 81% knockout rate and a perfect 31-0 slate, he presents a significant power threat. The psychological warfare from Benavidez's camp, claiming he dropped Bivol in sparring, adds intrigue but shouldn't overshadow Bivol’s championship pedigree.

Bivol’s experience in high-stakes fights gives him an edge against Benavidez’s raw aggression. While Benavidez is undoubtedly dangerous, his tendency to rely on power could play into Bivol’s counterpunching expertise. Additionally, Bivol’s recent performances suggest he’s peaking at age 35, proving doubters wrong time and again. The odds reflect public perception, with Benavidez listed at 3.90, but value lies in backing the more composed fighter who knows how to win titles rather than just deliver knockouts.

Considering all factors, including Bivol’s defensive acumen and composure under pressure, the smart bet here is on the champion retaining his belts by decision or late stoppage.