Benavidez’s Potential in the Light Heavyweight Division
Cutman Russ Anber, a seasoned professional in the boxing world, believes that David Benavidez (30-0, 24 KOs) has a real shot at toppling the newly crowned undisputed light heavyweight champion, Dmitry Bivol (24-1, 12 KOs), and the former champion, Artur Beterbiev (21-1, 20 KOs). Anber sees Benavidez as a stylistic challenge for both fighters, suggesting that his unique approach could pose significant difficulties. The prospect of a Benavidez fight against either Bivol or Beterbiev excites Anber, who envisions it as a potential "fight of the year" or "excitement of the year" clash. His endorsement speaks volumes about Benavidez’s skill and the anticipation of such a matchup.
The Waiting Game for Benavidez
David Benavidez is currently the WBC mandatory challenger for the belt that Bivol now holds. However, it seems that his opportunity to fight for the title will not come anytime soon, if at all. Turki Alalshikh, who has been pushing for a trilogy bout between Bivol and Beterbiev, is likely to see his wishes come true next. Matchroom, Bivol’s promotional team, is also keen on a rematch with Canelo Alvarez, making it clear that they are not interested in a match with Benavidez. This leaves Benavidez in a frustrating limbo, forced to wait on the sidelines as these high-profile fights play out. The delay is not just a matter of patience; it also means that Benavidez’s skills and potential remain untapped at the highest level of the division.
The Trilogy and Beyond
The Bivol-Beterbiev trilogy is expected to be the next big fight in the light heavyweight division. If Turki Alalshikh succeeds in persuading Canelo Alvarez to face the winner, this sequence of bouts will likely dominate the scene for the coming year. This scenario could be detrimental to Benavidez, as it would push his chances of securing a title shot even further into the future. However, if Beterbiev emerges victorious and unifies the four belts, he might be more inclined to take on Benavidez. Unlike Bivol, who is carefully protected by his crafty promoter Eddie Hearn, Beterbiev might see the value in a high-stakes, highreward matchup with Benavidez.
Eddie Hearn’s Promotional Strategy
Eddie Hearn, Bivol’s promoter, is known for his strategic and cautious approach to matchmaking. He tends to place his fighters in bouts where he feels they have a near-certain chance of winning. If there is any doubt, Hearn often delays or avoids the fight altogether. This is why a fight between Bivol and Benavidez is unlikely to materialize. Hearn’s reluctance to risk Bivol against a formidable opponent like Benavidez underscores the potential danger Benavidez represents. The WBC belt, which Bivol currently holds, might be vacated if he wins his trilogy with Beterbiev and then beats Canelo. This vacating could open up new avenues for Benavidez, but it remains a hypothetical scenario for now.
Anber’s Analysis of Benavidez
Russ Anber’s confidence in Benavidez is rooted in the fighter’s ability to create excitement and overcome adversity. Even in his recent bout against David Morrell, Benavidez showed resilience and came back strongly after appearing hurt at times. Morrell, known for his punching power and skill, could not keep Benavidez down. Anber believes that Benavidez’s fights are always entertaining, and a matchup with either Bivol or Beterbiev would be no exception. While Anber does not predict Benavidez as a favorite to win, he does see him as a competitive underdog with a real chance at pulling off an upset. This assessment highlights Benavidez’s unpredictability and fighting spirit, which make him a compelling figure in the division.
The Future of the Light Heavyweight Division
As the light heavyweight division continues to evolve, the landscape is shaped by the strategic decisions of promoters and the natural progression of careers. Despite the odds being stacked against Benavidez in terms of getting immediate title shots, his potential and the excitement he brings to the ring are undeniable. The division is currently dominated by aging champions, and a fresh face like Benavidez could breathe new life into it. Whether he gets his chance against Bivol or Beterbiev remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the boxing world is eagerly waiting to see what Benavidez can achieve if given the opportunity to face these seasoned champions.
