In this episode of the Podcast, we explore the crucial balance between mobility and stability in boxing. Bivol’s strategic shift to incorporate more stability allowed him to land powerful combinations and keep Beterbiev at bay, ultimately leading him to victory. This dynamic blend of movement and force is a game-changer in the ring.
In boxing, the balance between mobility and stability can determine who controls the fight. This concept was brought to life in during the rematch between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev—a fight that not only crowned Bivol as the undisputed World Light Heavyweight Champion but also served as a tactical masterclass in how movement and rooted power can work together.
Why Mobility and Stability Matter
To succeed in boxing, a fighter needs both mobility and stability:
- Mobility allows a boxer to move in and out of range, evade punches, and reposition tactically.
- Stability provides the base needed to deliver forceful punches, absorb impacts, and maintain balance.
It’s not a case of choosing one over the other—true mastery lies in knowing when to transition between the two.
Bivol’s Tactical Evolution
In their first encounter, Bivol demonstrated great mobility but lacked the stability to consistently throw powerful shots and keep Beterbiev at bay. While he used the jab effectively and moved well, he struggled to stop Beterbiev’s forward pressure. The result? Beterbiev managed to close the distance and dominate much of the fight.
The rematch told a different story.
Bivol adjusted his game plan to blend mobility and stability seamlessly. Rather than staying overly mobile and reactive, he began anchoring himself just long enough to fire back with purpose. His combinations were simple but effective—typically cycling between a jab, a backhand, a lead hook, and occasionally finishing with another rear hand. Despite the limited variety, the timing and structure of his combinations made a significant difference.
This ability to move, set, punch, and then move again was the turning point. It kept Beterbiev guessing and off rhythm. During exchanges, Bivol’s improved stability meant he could land with more authority and reposition quickly before Beterbiev could respond.
Key Takeaways For Your Next Session
- You can’t move for 12 rounds without punching. High mobility without offensive output won’t win you rounds—especially against a relentless opponent who cuts off the ring.
- Stability enables force. Being grounded at the right moment allows for more powerful, meaningful punches that can stop an opponent’s forward momentum.
- Punches in bunches matter. Throwing in combinations, even with basic shots, can sometimes be more effective than single punches, particularly when timed to interrupt an opponent’s rhythm.
Lessons for Coaches
This bout offers a valuable blueprint for designing training sessions around real-world boxing tactics:
- Use video analysis to break down fights like Bivol vs. Beterbiev with your boxers. Encourage them to identify moments where a boxer transitions from mobility to stability and vice versa.
- Incorporate scenario-based games where boxers must quickly stabilize to throw combinations, then re-mobilize to reposition.
- Promote tactical discussions in sessions. When boxers can articulate why something worked in a fight, they’re more likely to apply it themselves.
We used this very fight to engage our boxers in a conversation about these concepts, followed by exercises that mirrored what Bivol did: shifting from defensive movement to stable offense, then back again.
Final Thoughts
The rematch between Bivol and Beterbiev wasn’t just a great fight—it was a top demonstration of one of boxing’s core tactical principles. Whether you’re in the ring or in the corner, understanding how to manage the interplay between mobility and stability could be the difference between a narrow loss and a career-defining win.