Dmitry Bivol would beat Canelo Alvarez every time they fought, according to Michael Eifert’s manager, who also described the undisputed light heavyweight champion as “a legend of the sport” after witnessing his masterclass up close.
Benedikt Poelchau made the assessment while speaking exclusively to World Boxing News after watching Eifert go the full twelve rounds with Dmitry Bivol in Russia.
Eifert struggled to adapt to Bivol’s superior skills as the Russian reinforced why he’s regarded as one of boxing’s pound-for-pound stars.
Bivol beats Canelo every time
When Bivol dominated Canelo Alvarez at T-Mobile Arena, WBN was ringside to witness a performance that looked decided within minutes. Bivol had Canelo’s number that night, and according to Poelchau, he would have it every time they stepped into the ring.
“I am convinced that Bivol would beat Canelo every time they fought. In my view he will always be able to neutralize Canelo’s offense and dictate the pace,” Poelchau told WBN.
Bivol produced one of the defining performances of his career against the Mexican superstar in 2022, controlling the distance with his jab, frustrating Canelo throughout and cruising to a unanimous decision.
Poelchau believes the outcome would be the same.
A legend of the sport
Having watched his fighter share the ring with Bivol for twelve rounds, Poelchau left with even greater appreciation for the champion’s ability.
“I currently see him as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, definitely inside the top five. I also believe he is one of the greatest light heavyweights in boxing history.”
Asked how Bivol would fare against David Benavidez, Poelchau expects one of the biggest fights in boxing.
“I think that would be a fascinating fight. Right now, Bivol looks almost impossible to beat, and the same can be said about Benavidez. I believe the one who performs better on the night will come out on top.”
Poelchau also reflected on what the experience meant for Eifert.
“I think it was a tremendous experience for Michael to share the ring with Dmitry Bivol, a legend of the sport. He gave everything he could.”
Michael Eifert comeback
Despite suffering the first defeat of his professional career, Eifert’s team believes the experience will prove invaluable once the German contender returns to full fitness.
“We will sit down together soon and carefully discuss the future. Most likely Michael will first need surgery due to a long-term injury.”
Poelchau says the priority is allowing Eifert to recover before rebuilding the momentum lost through inactivity.
“He needs to make up for those years of inactivity to continue his development. It will be interesting to see if this experience will help him grow into an elite light heavyweight over the next years.”
At just 28 years old, Eifert still has time on his side after pushing himself against the very best in the division.
Poelchau remains convinced the setback will not define his fighter’s career.
“Michael is still at a very good age and I am convinced that he has a great career ahead of him.”
The manager concluded with a personal tribute to the man behind the gloves.
“And most important beyond boxing, Michael is a wonderful person—honest, hardworking and a fantastic father to his three children. He will always have my support.”
Poelchau believes the experience will ultimately make him a better fighter. Surgery comes first, but at 28 years old the team remains convinced Eifert can return to world level and earn another title shot.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. His work is distributed across major platforms, including Apple News. Read full bio.
