A fight like that is my dream since childhood. In the end, every bit of waiting was worth it."
Eifert watched from a distance as Bivol and Beterbiev traded victories before the reigning champion paused his career for back surgery in summer 2025.
"They're both great champions, two legends of the sport," Eifert said.
He dismissed criticisms regarding his credentials by pointing to his victory over Pascal in an official elimination bout.
"Now it's my turn to strive for greatness."
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Eifert traveled to Canada to face Pascal in a world title eliminator. "I went to his hometown of Montreal, Canada and clearly beat him," he said.
"What more can I do? [Winning the eliminator] gives me the right to challenge the champion."
The challenger enters the bout as a significant underdog against Bivol, widely considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters globally.
"I think everyone in boxing agrees that Bivol is an almost flawless boxer," Eifert said. "One of the best light heavyweights the sport has ever seen.
A true legend and a great champion."
Eifert emphasized he bears no psychological pressure heading into the highest-stakes matchup of his career. "I have nothing to lose.
I believe in myself and have worked my whole life towards this day. I will leave my heart in that ring to dethrone Dmitry.
Everything else, we will see in the ring."
Promoter Benedikt Poelchau managed the strategic path to guide his fighter toward the unified championship opportunity despite multiple delays.
"It really was a long journey," Poelchau said.
"But as Michael said, when it's about four belts, what else can you do but patiently wait for that chance?"
He expressed fulfillment in securing the largest possible platform for his athlete. "I'm proud to have guided Michael into this unique fight — the biggest fight possible."
According to Sports Illustrated, the main event ringwalks at the UGMK Arena are scheduled for approximately 4 p.
m. EST.
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The WBO has mandated that the winner must next defend against Callum Smith.
