Winning was all Dmitry Bivol knew. So, when The Ring’s No. 1 ranked light heavyweight contender suffered the first defeat of his career, it took him completely off guard.

With all the marbles on the table, Bivol (23-1, 12 KOs) gave it everything he had against Artur Beterbiev this past year. After fighting his heart out and emptying the tank, however, all three judges sitting ringside handed Beterbiev the victory. Ultimately, the after-effects of losing his WBA crown and the chance to become an undisputed champion isn’t something he’s enjoying.

He's adjusted to the first defeat of his career but the verbiage used by everyone around the world is something that infuriates him.

Whether the 34-year-old walks into a bar, takes a stroll down the street or is being mentioned by a ring announcer, their vernacular is all the same. He is now referred to as a former champion. Although it’s true, Bivol isn’t a fan of it.

“I don’t like to hear former world champion or ex-world champion, or I have one loss,” said Bivol during a recent Zoom interview with Fight Hub TV. “I don’t like it.”

Bivol will never get his undefeated record back but on February 22nd, he will have the opportunity to remove the word "former" from everyone’s vernacular.

As their rematch draws closer, Bivol cracks the speed bag a little harder and adds a few more miles to his daily run. For as badly as Bivol wants to get his revenge, he doesn’t spend too much time pressing over the past. What’s done is done. Now, it’s all about perfecting his craft and preparing both his mind and body for their undisputed rematch.

“I can’t think too much about it. I just don’t have time to think about it and to pity myself about it. I want to move forward.”