Artur Beterbiev reveals major career update: ‘the best fights are ahead’

The name Artur Beterbiev has struck fear into the light heavyweight division since the early years of his career in 2013. The boxing world began to take notice when Beterbiev stopped Tavoris Cloud in two rounds.

His professional career has seen the Russian reach the pinnacle of boxing, and even at 40, his hunger appears to be more than ever. Beterbiev recently took to social media to announce he has left Top Rank following the expiration of his contract in June, as reported by Dan Rafael.

Artur Beterbiev confirms free agency at 40 – teases big fights

Announcing the news of his Top Rank departure, Beterbiev’s post read:

“Hi everyone. I got a lot of questions about my promotional status,” Beterbiev wrote. “From June 2025 I’m a free agent. My contract with Top Rank expired. I’m grateful for all these years with Top Rank and want to thank them for the opportunities they gave me. I want everyone who follow and support me to know that I believe the best fights are ahead.”

Top Rank has represented Beterbiev for nine fights, including memorable wins against Oleksandr Gvozdyk, Joe Smith Jr., and his two fights against Dmitry Bivol in Riyadh. As revealed by Dan Rafael, Top Rank has a matching right should Beterbiev receive an offer, but it appears unlikely they will look to match.

The future for Artur Beterbiev

Artur Beterbiev (21-1, 20 KOs) has been chasing a trilogy bout with Bivol, before Bivol had back surgery.

The first fight between the two was a brilliant bout, which saw Beterbiev end the fight strongly, edging a majority decision, before Bivol gained revenge four months later.

With a trilogy fight on hold, it was announced that Beterbiev would face Deon Nicholson on the stacked November 22 Ring IV card, headlined by David Benavidez against Anthony Yarde. 

This fight was ultimately pulled from the fight card, with no explanation. It remains to be seen what is next for Beterbiev, but much of the boxing world remains hopeful that we see the heavy-handed Russian-born fighter back in action soon.