2024 has been a year of controversial decisions, and Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol might dwarf all other fights. The contest kept every fan and pro on their seat, as the two fought for the undisputed light heavyweight crown. But many raised their eyebrows when Beterbiev, 39, got his hands raised. It seems David Benavidez saw the fight differently, too.

Benavidez, 27, has moved up to 175 after toiling hard at 168 and is next in the line to challenge for the WBC title. While he awaits his shot, he might have to see off the Beterbiev vs. Bivol rematch first. How does he see it going down? The Mexican Monster expects a change in the division’s hierarchy.

Benavidez, at 29-0, dissected the fight outcome in a conversation with Fight Hub. He explained how if the fight was judged only on the boxing criteria, Bivol would have bagged the fight. But if the same were to be judged by damage, Beterbiev won it. He said, “To be honest with you, I think when it comes more down to boxing, I think Dmitry Bivol won that fight. When it comes to damage, Beterbiev was probably landing the harder blows.”

The Phoenix native added, “But you know what? I feel like Bivol did enough to win the fight, you know what I mean?” So, what happens in the rematch if it unfolds similarly? He again gave it to Bivol. He continued, “If it’s the same exact fight, I see Bivol winning. But unless they rob him again, there’s really nothing you could do.”

There have been rumors of Beterbiev and Bivol running it again. However, there is no concrete development on it. ‘Mexican Monster,’ on the other hand, is ready to defend his interim WBC title and take on David Morrell next. To keep him active and help him settle down in the division.

David Benavidez: separating himself from the rest

Benavidez, who couldn’t get Canelo Alvarez to ink a fight deal with him, expects a fight with the undisputed champion next. But if misfortune follows along, he expects the fight with Morrell, 26, as his breakthrough. He declared, “I know it’s gonna be a good fight, and I know this is gonna separate me from everybody else. I wanna solidify myself down [with] the best. So, like I said, I just wanna do it myself… If I can’t get Canelo, if I can’t get Beterbiev or Bivol, this is the next-best way.”

The former super middleweight champion has made his mark since moving up to 175. He comprehensively defeated Oleksandr Gvozdyk but looked gassed out and out of stamina in the later rounds. So, he has yet to get used to the weight class, and a fight with Morrell, at 11-0, gives him the perfect opportunity. It remains to be seen whether Benavidez feels more comfortable at 175.

What do you make of these comments by David Benavidez about Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol? Do you agree with him? Let us know in the comments below.