Bivol (20-0, 11 KOs) pulled off a big surprise win over Mexican pound-for-pound superstar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in May, where he retained his 175-pound world title via a unanimous decision to 20 wins from 20 make fights.
The 31-year-old gave Alvarez just the second loss of his career, nine years after his first loss to modern grandmaster Floyd Mayweather, further cementing himself as one of the top light heavyweights in the world.
“The fight with Zurdo has been brewing for a while, a lot has been said,” Bivol said.
“Now we have the opportunity to settle things with our actions in the ring, not with our words outside the ring.”
Ramirez (44-0, 30 KOs) is a former WBO super middleweight champion and has impressively won all five of his light heavyweight fights by distance since rising in 2019.
“I’m happy that the fight is finally taking place despite all the challenges,” said Ramirez. “It’s been a long time coming and I’m looking forward to a great night on November 5th. I would fight Bivol anywhere, including Mars, but I know we’re going to put on a great show in Abu Dhabi.”
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn is delighted the fight is coming to Abu Dhabi, guaranteeing fight fans a night to remember in the UAE capital.
“I am delighted to bring this massive World Championship fight to Abu Dhabi and would like to thank the Ministry of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi for all their help in making this world-class event a reality.
“Dmitry Bivol has now secured pound-for-pound status for himself after beating Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in May, trying to build a vitally important defense against Mandatory Challenger and former world champion Gilberto Ramirez. The map is stacked with world championship fights and is set to be one of boxing’s biggest nights of 2022.”
For more information and ticket purchase see https://www.etihadarena.ae/en/event-booking/wba-bivol-ramirez
