A packed boxing card in Saudi Arabia this weekend could provide some hot matchups and lucrative bets. From the Beterbiev rematch to Vergil Ortiz Jr.'s rise, this article helps determine the best options to place that bet.
A stacked lineup of high-stakes fights begins Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The main event features a rematch of undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev against former champion Dmitry Bivol. Undercard bouts include Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Israil Madrimov and Joseph Parker vs. Bakole. Whether you’re a veteran bettor or just someone who enjoys a match here and there, this guide lays out the top bets and what makes them worth a look.
Betting on Fighters at Reputable Online Casinos
With competitive odds, live updates and diverse markets, new betting platforms dominate the scene. These also integrate online casino games like blackjack, poker, and slots so you can switch between rounds or during fight downtimes. Common types of bets are moneylines (picking the winner), totals (over/under rounds), and prop bets (method of victory, round-specific outcomes). New bettors in the ring can find more info here to get started on the right foot.
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Beterbiev vs. Bivol: A Rematch Too Close to Call
Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol’s first fight was a razor-thin decision. Now the rematch looks just as competitive. Reigning champion Beterbiev opens as a slight favorite at -125, but Bivol is a live underdog at +105. Bivol landed more punches in the first fight and was more accurate, but Beterbiev never gave up the fight despite constant pressure and adversity.
It all depends on whether Bivol adjusts his strategy to neutralize Beterbiev's aggression. If he can stay away and make clean shots he might just pull off the upset. But for bettors, Bivol's moneyline offers good value in what may prove to be another close battle.
Bakole vs. Parker: Expect Early Fireworks
Joe Parker had been set to face Daniel Dubois, but Martin Bakole stepped in quickly. Bakole has heavy hands and can finish fights early. A former WBO champion Parker has been sharp in recent bouts, but he is susceptible to power punches, making it a risky affair.
Playing the under 8.5-rounds bet at -115 here is smart. Bakole's power and Parker's tendency to firefight suggest that this one won't make it far. Since neither fighter is likely to stop the fight early on, betting on a stoppage before the halfway point seems sensible.
Vergil Ortiz Jr.: Rising Star Worth Backing
The bout could seal the future of Vergil Ortiz Jr in boxing. A -125 favorite, Ortiz has shown great power and resilience after getting knocked down twice in his last fight. Madrimov is an effective opponent but lack of elite power could cost him against Ortiz.
The safest bet here is Ortiz's moneyline. The awkward style of Madrimov could trouble the youngster initially but the adaptability and determination of Ortiz should ensure victory. And this fight could be the stepping stone to bigger things for Ortiz - so watch it for fans and bettors alike.
Callum Smith: Underdog with Upset Potential
Callum Smith fights Joshua Buatsi as a +165 underdog, but don't write him off. Smith has played against top competitors like Canelo Alvarez and his experience could set him apart from Buatsi, who has yet to make an impact at the highest level.
Buatsi’s got that Olympic experience, but Smith is a tough, strong fighter with some serious smarts. If Smith can weather the early rounds and impose his will, he could make the upset. If you like value bets, try Smith's moneyline.
Zhang vs. Kabayel: Heavyweight Power on Display
Potential barnburner between Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel: heavyweights with knockout power. The striking power of Zhang's shots contrasts with Kabayel's volume-punching.
It is an attractive option to go for the under -9.5 rounds bet at -115. The two fighters can both end the fight early and with so much riding on it, which is why neither will play it safe. Fireworks are expected - and don't be surprised if this one ends before the final bell.
Shakur Stevenson: Safe Bet for the Over
Shakur Stevenson fights Josh Padley. But Stevenson's cautious approach often means decisions instead of stoppages. A late replacement, Padley, is unlikely to be a threat, but Stevenson tends to fight measuredly, so the over 8.5 rounds bet at -115 is an attractive one.
Stevenson could dominate but his style rarely produces early finishes. Unless he decides to step on the gas, this fight is likely to go the distance. Stevenson has what it takes to beat a fighter like Padley pretty quickly, but he doesn’t really have that killer instinct. That's why betting experts are leaning towards the over in this one.
A bettor's dream boxing card this weekend features competitive matchups and explosive fights. There are good reasons to place informed bets - on Bivol's technical brilliance or Ortiz's rising star power. You can back underdogs or play it safe on this card. Grab your popcorn, study those odds - and prepare for a weekend of action.