David Benavidez Moves Up to Light Heavyweight, Dismisses Return to Super Middleweight
David Benavidez, the reigning WBC light heavyweight champion, has made it clear that he has no intention of returning to the super middleweight division after his departure, even with new opportunities arising. This decision follows Terence Crawford’s recent victory over Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, a match that left Alvarez without championship gold at 168 pounds and raised questions about potential matchups in that division.
Benavidez’s Departure from Super Middleweight
Benavidez, who boasts an undefeated record of 30-0 with 24 knockouts, shared his thoughts in an interview with Fight Hub TV, stating, “I’m done with [super middleweight].” He extended his congratulations to Crawford and acknowledged his championship status, suggesting that while venturing down to 168 pounds might seem appealing, it isn’t a consideration for him anymore. “I wouldn’t even go down to 168 for Canelo,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to remaining at light heavyweight.
Benavidez’s exits from the super middleweight scene were largely influenced by his unsuccessful attempts to secure a title fight against Alvarez, widely regarded as one of boxing’s elite.
Crawford’s Ascendancy and Alvarez’s Surgery
Crawford’s triumph over Alvarez on September 13 not only marked a significant moment in boxing but also crowned him the holder of all four super middleweight world titles. Following Alvarez’s elbow surgery, which will sideline him for an extended period, the division appears to be in flux. Despite the new title opportunities presented by Crawford’s dominance, Benavidez reiterated that he has no desire to face him, stating, "Let Crawford do his thing… My job is to give myself the best chance to win.”
Career Reflections and History in the Ring
Benavidez previously held the WBC super middleweight title twice, with his first reign ending in 2018 after testing positive for cocaine, and his second cut short when he failed to make weight in 2020. His efforts to capture Alvarez’s titles included winning the interim WBC title and successfully defending it twice while waiting for an elusive shot at the reigning champion.
His ascent to light heavyweight came after realizing that pursuing Alvarez was no longer viable. Moving up the ranks, he captured the WBC interim title against Oleksandr Gvozdyk, and later secured the WBA interim title against another fighter who had similarly stepped away from super middleweight.
Future Fights and Title Defense
Benavidez’s current focus is on defending his title against Anthony Yarde in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 22. His rise in the light heavyweight division suggests a strategic pivot away from super middleweight, allowing him to pursue championship glory in a new weight class.
Despite his current trajectory, Benavidez expressed regret about not being able to dethrone Alvarez, asserting, “I kinda felt like that could’ve been me. I know I would’ve beat him.” His sentiment underscores a lingering desire to be recognized within the boxing hierarchy, particularly regarding his rivalry with Alvarez.
Conclusion: The Impact of Departures and New Beginnings
Benavidez’s decision to fully commit to light heavyweight is emblematic of a broader trend in boxing, where fighters weigh their options across different divisions to maximize their careers. With Crawford’s recent rise and Alvarez’s challenges, the dynamics within the super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions are set for a significant shift. For Benavidez, this transition is not just about avoiding weight cuts but about positioning himself for the best chance at a successful run as a champion in a highly competitive landscape.
As both the light heavyweight and super middleweight scenes evolve, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these narratives unfold, especially as Benavidez seeks to carve out his legacy.
