David Benavidez’s Bold Claim: "I’ll Beat Him"
David Benavidez, the undefeated super middleweight champion with a record of 30-0 and 24 knockouts, is confident that he can dethrone Dmitry Bivol, the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Benavidez’s stance comes amid speculation that Bivol might opt for a trilogy bout with former four-belt champion Artur Beterbiev next. However, Benavidez is open to a different scenario, one where he could fight on the undercard of the Bivol-Beterbiev rematch, potentially drawing more attention to the event. His confidence is not unfounded, as he has earned the right to challenge Bivol with his recent victory over WBA ‘regular’ light heavyweight champion David Morrell on February 1st. Benavidez’s past experience sparring with Bivol has given him unique insights into the champion’s fighting style, and he believes he has the tools to outlast and ultimately defeat Bivol in a full match.
The Undercard Advantage
Including Benavidez on the undercard of the Bivol-Beterbiev trilogy match could be a strategic move to reinvigorate fan interest. The repeated bouts between Bivol and Beterbiev have left many boxing enthusiasts yearning for fresh blood. Nicknamed ‘The Mexican Monster,’ Benavidez has built a strong following in the U.S. due to his powerful presence and recent successes. Fans would likely tune in to see Benavidez, knowing his potential impact on the sport and his ability to deliver thrilling performances. This move could not only boost ticket sales and viewership but also enhance the overall appeal of the card, making it a more compelling event for both casual and hardcore boxing fans.
Lessons from the Sparring Ring
Benavidez’s past sparring sessions with Bivol provide a critical point of reference for his confidence. He recalls these sessions as a series of intense exchanges where he and Bivol continually adapted to each other’s strategies. By the fourth round, Benavidez claims to have figured out Bivol’s game plan, even managing to land a devastating 15-20 punch burst that nearly sent Bivol to the canvas. This experience has given Benavidez a unique understanding of Bivol’s Eastern European fighting style, which often struggles under relentless pressure. Benavidez’s ability to maintain his energy and aggression throughout a fight is a significant advantage, as he believes Bivol’s endurance is a weak point. During the recent rematch between Bivol and Beterbiev, Beterbiev’s all-out attack in the early rounds was effective, but he eventually tired, allowing Bivol to regain control. Benavidez, however, is known for his relentless energy, which he believes will be the key to outlasting Bivol and securing a win.
The Relentless Chase
Benavidez’s strategy against Bivol is clear: he plans to maintain a relentless assault, similar to what Beterbiev executed in the first half of their rematch. However, Benavidez’s youthful vigor and physical prowess set him apart. He believes that Bivol, despite his skill and experience, would struggle to withstand the constant pressure and power of his punches. In their sparring sessions, Benavidez noted that he was able to dominate Bivol, particularly when he unleashed his full arsenal. Unlike Beterbiev, who eventually ran out of steam, Benavidez is confident that he can sustain his attack for the entire match, leaving Bivol with little chance of survival. The expectation is that Bivol would either be knocked out or his corner would throw in the towel, unable to withstand the relentless assault.
Negotiations and Control
Despite his confidence, Benavidez is pragmatic about the potential fight. He has communicated with promoter Turki Alalshikh and understands that negotiations are underway for the Bivol-Beterbiev trilogy match. Benavidez is mindful of his position as the #1 contender and the leverage it provides. He is willing to fight on the undercard if the financial terms are agreeable, recognizing that such a move could bring more attention to the card and potentially set the stage for his own title shot in the future. Benavidez’s willingness to consider this option shows his strategic thinking and his desire to remain relevant in the boxing world, even if it means waiting a bit longer to challenge Bivol for the undisputed titles.
A Bright Future in Boxing
David Benavidez’s journey to the top of the boxing world is marked by both achievement and ambition. His recent win over David Morrell has solidified his status as a formidable contender, and his past sparring sessions with Bivol have given him valuable insights that he believes will translate into a victory. While the immediate future may involve a wait or potentially fighting on the undercard of a high-profile match, Benavidez remains focused on his ultimate goal: becoming the undisputed champion. His openness to various scenarios and his confidence in his abilities make him a dangerous and exciting prospect in the light heavyweight division. With his combination of skill, youth, and relentless aggression, Benavidez is poised to make a significant impact on the sport, whether on the main card or the undercard.
