Dmitry Bivol Beat Malik Zinad by TKO in Round 6: Fight Result
Last updated: 22 October 2026. Dmitry Bivol beat Malik Zinad by TKO in round 6 on 1 June 2024 at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Zinad challenged Bivol for the WBA light heavyweight title after Artur Beterbiev withdrew ahead of the fight.
The fight was originally due to be between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. After Beterbiev withdrew with a knee injury, Bivol faced Malik Zinad on 1 June 2024.
1 June 2024 was a special day in Riyadh boxing history, with multiple fights taking place. The 5 vs 5 card was one of the iconic events of the night.
Kingdom Arena in Riyadh
Kingdom Arena, with its top class facilities, hosted this fight and added another high profile bout to the events held there. The fight further positioned Riyadh as a sports capital that attracts top tier global talent.
Dmitry Bivol
Bivol came into the fight with a record of 22-0, with 11 KOs. He was known for his disciplined approach and precision, and his fast pace and maintained distance made him a tough opponent and a formidable champion in the light heavyweight division. He beat Zinad by TKO in round 6.
Malik Zinad
Zinad came into the fight undefeated, with a record of 22-0 and 16 KOs. He was known for his aggressive style and power, and for sharp technique. He had delivered strong ring performances with his aggressive approach, and this was his biggest challenge to date.
How the Fight Played Out
In this WBA battle, Bivol used his quick footwork to maintain distance and outbox Zinad as he defended his title. Zinad tried to close the distance, use his power and disrupt Bivol’s rhythm and pace as he aimed for a knockout. It was a tactical battle, and Bivol stopped Zinad in round 6.
Dmitry Bivol Arrived in Riyadh to a Warm Welcome
What Was at Stake
Beyond the physical battle, both fighters understood that their reputations were on the line. Bivol retained the championship belt with the stoppage win, enhancing his international standing and recognition. A win for Zinad would have made him champion, but Bivol’s victory cemented his legacy as a champion.
The fighters had landed in Riyadh before the fight. On the night, the crowd filled Kingdom Arena and Bivol beat Zinad by TKO in round 6 to score a stoppage win.