Dmitry Bivol undergoes back surgery; undisputed light-heavyweight plans pushed to 2026

 

Dmitry Bivol (2023). Photo by Vyacheslav Evdokimov / FC Zenit, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).

August 23, 2025 — WBA light-heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol has had back surgery and is expected to be sidelined until sometime in 2026, putting any undisputed clash on hold. Reports this week say the procedure went well, but recovery will keep him out for the rest of 2025. CBSSports.comReddit

Where things stand

• The surgery: Bivol underwent a back operation and is now in rehab, with no firm return date announced. CBSSports.com

• Undisputed on ice: Hopes for an undisputed fight at 175 lbs (long discussed around Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev or a new four-belt path) are pushed back at least several months by the layoff. Reddit

• What it means for the belt: Expect the WBA to monitor his medical status; mandatory timelines could be adjusted while he recovers (no formal ruling yet). Inference based on standard sanctioning-body practice.

Why it matters

• Division freeze: With Bivol out and other contenders circling, the title picture at 175 will likely reshuffle for late 2025.

• Big-fight calendar: Broadcasters and promoters had targeted a year-end or early-2026 undisputed date; that now moves right with Bivol’s recovery window. CBSSports.com

What’s next

• Recovery first: Team Bivol will share a timeline only after he clears the early rehab stages. CBSSports.com

• Keeping the division moving: Don’t be surprised if eliminators or interim talk heats up while the champ is away. Inference.