Highlights
- Canelo Alvarez remains noncommittal towards fighting David Benavidez, citing the need for a higher purse of $150-200 million.
- Benavidez moves up to the light heavyweight division after Alvarez’s apparent disinterest, ready to face Gvozdyk on June 15.
- By exploring opportunities in a higher weight class, Benavidez shows determination to seek new challenges for further success.
In a thrilling showdown at the super-middleweight division, Canelo Alvarez emerged victorious yet again, solidifying his reign as the undisputed WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO champion. The seasoned champion displayed his prowess as he outsmarted challenger Jaime Munguia in a unanimous decision win.
During the post-fight press conference, the spotlight naturally shifted towards the possibility of a showdown between Alvarez and undefeated former two-time champion David Benavidez. However, Alvarez’s response was far from definitive. When questioned about his next move, the Mexican icon remained noncommittal, stating, “I don’t know right now. I’m gonna rest, I’m gonna enjoy my family. But if the money is right, I can fight right now. I don’t give a s***. I fought with everybody they said I’m not gonna fight, I fought all of them. So right now, I can do whatever I want. And I’m Mexican.”
Canelo Alvarez Remains Reluctant To Fight David Benavidez
The Mexican Star Has Been Accused Of Ducking Benavidez
Alvarez’s reluctance to commit to the bout with Benavidez comes with a steep price tag. Dismissing reports of a $55 million offer from Benavidez’s camp, Alvarez emphasized the need for a significantly higher purse, indicating figures ranging from $150 million to $200 million.
He brushed off Benavidez’s potential as a worthy opponent, asserting that the only thing the challenger brings to the table is weight, referencing claims that Benavidez rehydrates up to 25 pounds over the 168-pound limit.
David Benavidez Moves Up In Weight
The ‘Monster’ Doesn’t Believe Alvarez Will Fight Him
David Benavidez has made the strategic decision to transition to the light heavyweight division following the apparent disinterest of Alvarez in a potential showdown. Benavidez’s next challenge awaits as he prepares to face Oleksandr Gvozdyk on June 15, set to take place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas as part of the undercard for the Gervonta Davis-Frank Martin bout.
Benavidez’s move comes in the wake of his impressive victory over Demetrius Andrade in November, where he halted Andrade’s undefeated streak at the 168-pound weight class. With Alvarez seemingly focused on other opponents, including the anticipated matchup with Edgar Berlanga, Benavidez has opted to explore opportunities in a higher weight class.
By venturing into the light heavyweight division, Benavidez opens the door to potential future lucrative matchups, including the possibility of facing the winner of the Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol fight, which is currently being rescheduled. This strategic shift underscores Benavidez’s determination to pursue his boxing career and seek out new challenges in pursuit of further success.
