by Author Rooks/ Boxing Contributor
David Benavidez, with an unblemished record of 28-0 and 24 KOs, finds himself in a state of professional limbo, eagerly seeking a marquee matchup with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, who boasts a record of 60-2-2 and 39 KOs. The much-anticipated super middleweight showdown remains elusive due to a combination of reluctant parties and strained relations. As a workaround, Benavidez is pivoting towards the light heavyweight division, locking in a June 22 eliminator against Oleksandr Gvozdyk, with the winner earning a shot at the undisputed title currently up for grabs between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol.
Benavidez’s frustration with Canelo’s camp is palpable, especially regarding the perceived evasion of a direct confrontation, attributing it to financial demands and respect issues. This strategic maneuver not only keeps Benavidez in the championship hunt but also potentially positions him for a future, unavoidable clash with Canelo, underlining his resolve to not be sidelined despite the politics of the sport.