Benavidez Eyes Light Heavyweight Opportunity Amidst Canelo Standoff

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.

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David Benavidez on Canelo Alvarez: “With Canelo it's that bulls***, 'Oh, he needs to be respectful.' I’m not going to bow my knee to nobody because I’ve earned my shot. This fight isn't happening because he wants $150million. That’s telling me he’s scared… He gave the…

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) April 4, 2024

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.

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