Experience Gap
In his recent performance against David Benavidez on February 1st, light heavyweight David Morrell (11-1, 9 KOs) left a strong impression on Keyshawn Davis, a former amateur standout and current professional boxer. While Morrell’s overall performance was commendable, Davis pointed out several areas where experience and strategic adjustments could have significantly improved the fight. Davis, who watched the bout live on PBC on Prime Video PPV, noted that Morrell’s inexperience was evident, particularly in his tendency to back up to the ropes and rely too heavily on defensive maneuvers. This strategy played into Benavidez’s hands, allowing the more experienced fighter (30-0, 24 KOs) to dictate the pace and control the action.
Strategic Adjustments Needed
Davis suggested that Morrell should have been more aggressive, especially starting from the fifth or sixth round. Instead of waiting until the last two rounds to step up his game, Morrell could have created a more engaging and competitive match earlier on. By the time Morrell did initiate his late surge, he was already in a difficult position, requiring a knockout to turn the tide. Benavidez, known for his extraordinary durability, is a tough opponent to knock out, as evidenced by his ability to absorb massive shots that would have felled most fighters. This resilience makes him a particularly challenging opponent for Morrell to outbox or outpunch in the later rounds.
Benavidez’s Durable Defense
Benavidez’s head has often been likened to that of a water buffalo, a testament to his ability to withstand significant punishment. While this toughness is an asset in the ring, it also raises concerns about the long-term health implications for Benavidez. Davis noted that if Benavidez continues to take such heavy hits, he risks leaving the sport with severe cognitive damage. This concern is not just for Morrell’s immediate next fight but also for the broader future of both fighters. When Benavidez faces off against the likes of Artur Beterbiev, who is known for his powerful and precise punching, the outcome could be particularly brutal. Davis believes that such a matchup would leave little left for Morrell to deal with.
Late Surge and Potential
Despite the loss, Morrell showed significant promise, particularly in his late surge. Once he stopped showing excessive respect to Benavidez and began to land his bigger punches, he demonstrated that he had the power and conditioning to outlast his opponent. In the final rounds, Morrell outpunched Benavidez, who looked exhausted and unable to mount a significant defense. Benavidez’s rehydration to 196 pounds, a 22-pound gain from his 174-pound weigh-in, likely contributed to his fatigue. This late surge highlighted Morrell’s potential and his ability to adapt and improve as a fighter.
Keyshawn’s Assessment
Keyshawn Davis’s overall assessment of the fight was positive, despite the loss on Morrell’s record. Davis believes that Morrell’s performance was not a true reflection of his abilities, primarily due to his lack of experience. He noted that Morrell looked great and sold himself well, but strategic errors and youthful inexperience were apparent. Davis emphasized the importance of Morrell using his jab more effectively and moving in a circle to neutralize Benavidez’s offense. He also suggested that Morrell should have been more proactive in the middle rounds to maintain a competitive edge throughout the fight.
Future Prospects
Davis remains optimistic about Morrell’s future and believes that with more experience and refinement, he will become a formidable force in the light heavyweight division. He suggested that a rematch with Benavidez could be a possibility in a few years, as Morrell matures and develops his skills. Davis’s insights highlight the importance of continuous learning and growth in boxing, where even a loss can be a valuable lesson that shapes a fighter’s future success. Morrell’s performance, though not perfect, demonstrated his potential and the exciting future that lies ahead for him in the sport.
