The Contender Awaits: David Benavidez’s Next Move
David Benavidez, the formidable WBC interim light heavyweight champion, finds himself at a crossroads as he contemplates his next fight. With the highly anticipated rematch between Dmitry Bivol and undisputed light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev on the horizon, the boxing world is buzzing with speculation about who Benavidez will face next. Turki Alashikh, Beterbiev’s promoter, has already expressed a desire for a trilogy match if Bivol emerges victorious. This leaves Benavidez with several compelling options, each with its own set of advantages and challenges.
The Path to Redemption: Beterbiev vs. Bivol
If Beterbiev triumphs in the rematch on February 22nd, it could pave the way for a highly anticipated showdown with Benavidez. Unlike Canelo Alvarez, who might dwarf Benavidez in size, Beterbiev is a more suitable match for the Mexican contender. Beterbiev’s willingness to face Benavidez adds a layer of excitement to this potential bout, making it a lucrative and strategically sound move. The size and brawling style of the fight would likely result in a thrilling spectacle, further cementing Benavidez’s status as a top contender in the light heavyweight division.
The Cruiserweight Conundrum: David’s Dilemma
However, if Beterbiez-Bivol 2 does not materialize as expected, Benavidez has another intriguing option: moving up to cruiserweight. The prospect of challenging WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez for his titles is a enticing one. Benavidez, already a cruiserweight in size, could seamlessly transition to this division and secure a significant payday. While the move to cruiserweight might seem like a lateral one, it offers Benavidez the chance to compete against a new set of formidable opponents and potentially add more belts to his collection.
The Risks of Staying at 175: A Cautionary Note
Staying at light heavyweight, however, comes with its own set of risks. If Benavidez were to face IBF champion Jai Opetaia, the outcome could be dire. Opetaia’s punching power is well-documented, and the damage he inflicted on David Morrell in their recent bout serves as a stark reminder of the brutality of the sport. Given Benavidez’s tendency to absorb punches, a match against Opetaia could prove to be a punishing and potentially career-threatening challenge. Therefore, the decision to stay at 175 should be weighed carefully, considering the potential for significant physical toll.
Immediate Contenders: A Wealth of Options
If Benavidez chooses to remain at light heavyweight while waiting for a shot at the Beterbiev-Bivol trilogy, he has a plethora of quality opponents to consider. Joshua Buatsi, Anthony Yarde, and a rematch with David Morrell are all excellent choices. Each of these fighters brings a unique set of skills and challenges, ensuring that Benavidez remains sharp and continues to build his reputation in the division. Additionally, a bout with Willy Hutchinson could provide a solid test of Benavidez’s skills and resilience.
The Future Awaits: Benavidez’s Path Forward
In a recent interview with Ring Magazine, Dmitry Bivol acknowledged Benavidez’s prowess, calling him a "very good fighter" and a worthy opponent. This recognition from one of the top light heavyweights in the world underscores Benavidez’s standing in the boxing community. As he weighs his options, it is clear that David Benavidez is not short of opportunities. Whether he decides to stay at 175, move up to cruiserweight, or face a new contender, Benavidez’s next move is sure to be a significant one. The future of the light heavyweight division and beyond is closely tied to the decisions of this rising star, and boxing fans around the world will be watching with bated breath.
