Anthony David Benavidez, the Mexican Monster with an unblemished record of 29-0 is going to undertake one of the most important fights of his life in a few days. It has not been an easy ride for the 28-year-old. After being constantly denied title opportunities in 168 lbs, Benavidez is now ready to enter the big leagues in the Light Heavyweight division. His fight against David Morrell on February 1st will serve as the stepping stone for that.

Benavidez has established himself as one of the top fighters in the world. It was possible not only because of his talent and relentlessness but also because of the sacrifices his parents made throughout their lives. Born to his Mexican father Jose Benavidez Sr., and mother of Ecuadorian-Dominican descent, Alma Benavidez, the Mexican Monster’s journey in boxing is a saga of trials, sacrifices, and resilience.

Where are David Benavidez’s parents from?

Jose Sr. is a former small-time professional boxer hailing from Arcelia, Guerrero, Mexico, while his mother Alma is of Ecuadorian-Dominican descent. This mix of Mexican and Ecuadorian heritage has shaped Benavidez’s identity. However, in the 28-year-old’s own words, even though he wanted to quit boxing in the initial days, he kept on going because fear of disappointing his father always played in the back of his mind. Jose Sr. has seen a tragic life filled with trials and tribulations.

At the age of two, his parents separated and both of them moved out leaving him alone with his ailing maternal grandmother. Till the age of 11, Benavidez Sr worked in fields and even had to reportedly resort to stealing and picking food from the trash. 9 years after the separation, his mother called him to the U.S. but his stepdad kicked him out of their house and he had to quit school in grade 8. That is where his life took another dark turn as he started affiliating with gangs, sold d***s, and stole radios from cars.

In 1992, a wake-up call arrived. As still a teenager, his namesake, his firstborn, Jose Benavidez Jr. was born. Senior left his unlawful past and moved to Arizona for a better life where he secured a job at Ritz Carlton. The pair gave birth to David Benavidez four years later in 1996 and two daughters, Isabella and Daisy later. Over the next 15 years, he would go from a dishwasher to a banquet captain while boxing on the side, till he could afford to buy a house for his family.

He put his kids in the school and encouraged them to take up soccer or basketball. However, with combat in their blood, the duo chose boxing. Senior himself became a boxing trainer and manager by the late 90s and helped and mentored his kids throughout.

It was not easy for David Benavidez to keep on boxing and in his own words, “I’ve tried to quit a lot of times.” However, apart from his father’s struggles, there was also a voice that kept him motivated to go through the hard phase and make him the fighter he is today.

Who is David Benavidez’s mom?

Unfortunately, there is quite limited information available regarding Alma Benavidez’s personal life. Alma separated from Jose Sr. when David Benavidez was just 8 years old. While Jose Jr. stayed with his father, David and his sisters moved in with their mothers.

Alma has been an unwavering source of support and encouragement throughout Benavidez’s rise to the top. Her Ecuadorian-Dominican descent has played an important role in shaping the 29-0 boxer’s fiery spirit and relentlessness.

Today, David Benavidez is at the top of his division. His success is as much his as his parents. He will once again enter the ring on February 1st, 2025 to make them proud. A win here will make all the sacrifices worth it. A loss might not be an option for him.

What do you think? Let us know your thoughts about the Benavidez family in the comment section below.