Turki Alalshikh Loses Interest in Bivol vs. Benavidez
Turki Alalshikh, the influential boxing promoter, has decided to withdraw his interest in staging a fight between undisputed light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol and unbeaten WBC mandatory challenger David Benavidez. Alalshikh, who is known for his motto "The best vs. the best," has not disclosed the exact reasons behind his decision. However, his lack of interest could signal a significant shift in the boxing landscape, particularly for Bivol’s future opponents and title defenses.
The Merits of Bivol vs. Benavidez
Despite Alalshikh’s withdrawal, there are compelling reasons why the Bivol-Benavidez fight should still happen. Benavidez, nicknamed "The Mexican Monster," has earned this opportunity with his impressive win over David Morrell on February 1st. Benavidez’s talent and aggressive style make him a formidable opponent for Bivol, who has held the light heavyweight titles for several years. The fight promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the best in the division, providing the excitement that boxing fans crave.
Title Stripping and Future Implications
The WBC has ordered Bivol and Benavidez to begin negotiations, giving them until April 8th to finalize a deal before a purse bid is ordered. If Bivol fails to meet this deadline, the WBC may force him to vacate his WBC title. This scenario could have significant implications for both fighters and the sport. For Alalshikh, who is working with UFC president Dana White to create a new boxing league, the focus might shift to only using his own titles. If Bivol is stripped of his WBC belt, it might not bother Alalshikh, as he could prioritize his league’s titles. However, for Bivol, losing his WBC title could be a considerable setback.
Fan Fatigue and the Bivol-Beterbiev Trilogy
Fans of the sport have grown tired of seeing Bivol and Artur Beterbiev fight each other. They have already witnessed two matches between the two, which were largely considered boring. Bivol’s strategy of hitting and running, combined with Beterbiev’s slow-footed pursuit, did not provide the excitement many hoped for. The idea of a third fight between them seems redundant and unappealing to many boxing enthusiasts. Instead, fans are eager to see new blood challenge Bivol for his titles, and Benavidez fits the bill perfectly.
Alalshikh’s Strategic Moves
Alalshikh’s recent statement to Ring Magazine, where he advised Bovel to "Don’t be late because every day something changes," hints at his strategic intentions. It appears that Alalshikh wants Bivol to fight a different opponent next, possibly a rematch with Beterbiev or another high-profile bout. However, this could be seen as a veiled threat, suggesting that Bivol might face consequences if he does not comply with his wishes. The underlying message is clear: Bivol needs to align himself with Alalshikh’s plans to ensure his continued success and relevance in the sport.
The WBC’s Role and the Future of Bivol-Benavidez
Despite Alalshikh’s withdrawal, the WBC remains committed to the Bivol-Benavidez fight. The sanctioning body has set April 8th as the deadline for negotiations, and if an agreement is not reached, a purse bid will be ordered. This ensures that the fight remains on the horizon, regardless of Alalshikh’s involvement. The WBC’s stance adds a layer of urgency to the situation, putting pressure on both Bivol and Benavidez to come to terms. Ultimately, the outcome of these negotiations will determine the future of the light heavyweight division and the trajectory of both fighters’ careers.
