The clash between David Benavidez and Demetrius Andrade on November 25, headlining a Showtime Boxing PPV event in Las Vegas, is now history. In a battle of undefeated fighters, Benavidez risked his WBC interim super middleweight title. The stakes were high, as a victory would position Benavidez as the mandatory challenger for Canelo Alvarez‘s WBC super middleweight title.
The Michelob ULTRA Arena witnessed this pivotal matchup. It marked a significant moment in the careers of both fighters, with the anticipation of Benavidez potentially facing the formidable Alvarez in the near future. Fans and boxers alike feel that Alvarez should stop avoiding the fight now that there are barely any reasons left to not fight the ‘Mexican Monster’. However, it seems we might never witness the much-anticipated fight materialize. At least, Robert Garcia believes so.
Robert Garcia explains why Canelo Alvarez might not engage with David Benavidez
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While even Garcia, the former IBF junior lightweight title holder, would love to witness the matchup, he is skeptical about it materializing. Alvarez’s dominance in the sport grants him significant influence, and Garcia doubts we’ll witness this fight. If not Alvarez, his team might not allow a fight with Benavidez.
“Canelo’s too powerful. Canelo calls the shot and I kinda think Canelo’s not afraid of him but he could also, maybe not even Canelo, his team, Eddie Reynoso, and whoever’s involved in those decisions. They could say, ‘We call the shots, We don’t want to fight him so f*ck you. We’re not gonna please you with what you want. We’re not gonna please you with what you’re asking for, so f*ck you’,” said Garcia.
According to Garcia, there’s a concern that Canelo’s team might assert their authority and dictate the terms which may end up derailing the entire bout. If not interested, they might refuse to cater to the fan’s demands. The potential clash seems contingent on various factors beyond just the fighters’ willingness.
David Benavidez has his alternatives ready
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Benavidez, patiently waiting for over five years for a shot against Canelo, asserts that Canelo has no other compelling opponents left. He’s ready for the fight anytime. However, if Canelo opts out, he’s prepared to continue dominating in other divisions.
He’s considering his future options, hinting at a potential move to 175 pounds, where Dmitry Bivol awaits. Benavidez has confidence in his prowess inside the ring. He has no doubts about his comfort level and the danger he poses to a fighter above his weight class. He welcomes everyone to what he dubs “the era of Benavidez.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While some might guess that Alvarez not be taking on Benavidez because he is scared, some believe it is just a planning strategy being implemented by his team. Which side are you on? Let us know in the comments below.
Watch This Story: David Benavidez possible next Opponents