Two hungry fighters, both in their prime and gunning for world titles—the David Benavidez–David Morrell showdown was something to remember for years to come. Even though the 11-1, 9 KO gave him tough competition, the Phoenix-born champion’s skills earned him the win. With this victory, David Benavidez clinched the WBA (Regular) Light Heavyweight title. And with this, he sets the stage for even bigger challenges ahead.

David Benavidez had long been vocal about his desire to face Canelo Alvarez. But the unified super middleweight champion wasn’t interested in entertaining Benavidez’s demands. This forced Benavidez to move up a division to 175 lbs. As a result, he was made mandatory to fight the winner of the Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev rematch on February 22nd. But in the aftermath of his victory, Benavidez made a few things clear.

David Benavidez responds to rematch talk with David Morrell

Boxing n BBQ shared a clip of David Benavidez’s post-fight press conference in X. The 28-year-old was asked about the possibility of a rematch with Morrell. The reporter pointed out the three scorecards: 118-108, 115-111, 115-111, each in favor of Benavidez. So the reporter questioned if he was considering a return bout with the Cuban Southpaw.

David Benavidez was quick to respond, saying, “So he won two rounds? I mean, I don’t think it deserves a rematch.” He continued, “We’re just trying to put us in the number one spot. So I guess that’s next. But right now, I just really want to take a break.” Further suggesting his desire to take on a big fight next, he commented, “I’m willing to fight the best of whoever is on the table.”

The 30-0 boxer also emphasized that his goal is to be the best fighter, no matter who’s next in line. “After I beat Bivol or Beterbiev, there’s still going to be new fighters coming,” he added. “So it’s not really who’s next, it’s just about being the best fighter that’s on the table.”

Although The Mexican Monster seems to need a break, it looks like he won’t be out of the ring for long. Why? Because, right after David Benavidez’s win, the Ring Magazine on X, announced, “David Benavidez has now confirmed his position as the WBC mandatory challenger to fight the winner of the Feb 22nd Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol rematch for the undisputed light-heavyweight world titles.” Now, if you think the Phoenix native had no other reasons to refuse the rematch, you’d be wrong. While the fighters showed mutual respect post-match, tensions flared between Benavidez and Morrell’s manager, Luis DeCubas Sr.

The feud backstage that spilled over

The bad blood started at the final press conference in Las Vegas, where DeCubas and Team Benavidez clashed. After Benavidez’s controversial unanimous decision win, another heated exchange erupted during the post-fight press conference.

Benavidez shook hands with Morrell, but DeCubas refused. Why? “They called me a thief. He called me a thief, man,” shouted the IBHF Hall Of Famer 2023 nominee, referring to the statement David Benavidez made in the last press conference. According to the 28-year-old, Morrell’s manager was making more money than his fighter David Morrell. And DeCubas didn’t seem to take it well.

David Benavidez’s father Jose Benavidez Sr even replied, “We never called you a thief.” Despite attempts to de-escalate, DeCubas called Benavidez a “snitch,” which sparked an angry response. Benavidez then threatened to “slap the f**k outta” DeCubas before Morrell and others intervened. DeCubas’ frustration likely stemmed from the fight’s outcome, which many found controversial. Despite the chaos, Benavidez remains focused on his next big challenge.

So what do you think? Did David Benavidez make the right decision of not taking up the rematch? And, who do you think he will fight next?