Every week, FightHype sets aside some space for me to delve into the depths of my overflowing mailbag, providing you with raw, unfiltered insights and opinions. This time around, we’re diving into discussions about David Benavidez, the PBC, and the latest developments in the Garcia/Haney/Teofimo saga.
David Benavidez, On the Outside Again?
Hey Paul,
I’ve been a longtime fan of David Benavidez. He might not be flawless, but the way he’s handled himself over the last few years is commendable. Instead of endlessly waiting for a shot at Canelo, he’s been carving out his own path to stardom. I genuinely believe he’s earned his opportunities. What annoys me is seeing fighters like Edgar Berlanga get a Canelo fight without having achieved much. Now Berlanga’s acting like he can call the shots just because he wasn’t knocked out by Canelo—give me a break!
Sorry, I digressed. This was supposed to be about DB. Do you think there’s a risk of him being sidelined by the light heavyweights? It would be a shame if he doesn’t at least get a shot against someone like Bivol or Beterbiev. If those matchups don’t come through, what’s his next move?
— Reggie
Hey Reggie,
I’ve got to admit, I’m starting to worry. It seems like Benavidez might face the same hurdles at light heavyweight as he did at super middleweight. Unless he joins in with what’s happening in Riyadh, why would powerful promoters risk toppling their stronghold over the 175-pound division? For them, it’s all about business. Naturally, Benavidez—being a PBC fighter—will likely catch the blame if things don’t pan out. But honestly, he’s been making all the right moves. It would be a travesty if he ends up being sidelined again.
PBC’s Game Plan?
Hey Paul,
I’ve been contemplating this whole Turki movement in boxing and noticing how the focus seems to be shifting that way. The PBC appears to be one of the few holdouts. Sure, some of their fighters have appeared on Turki cards, but I don’t see the same level of cooperation as with other promotions. Do you think they have a strategy up their sleeves, or are they just waiting to see how things shake out? What’s your take on PBC’s future?
— Clyde
Hey Clyde,
Honestly, I don’t see some hidden strategy unfolding. At this point, it seems like the PBC is mainly trying to maintain its footing. Right now, they’ve got Tank Davis, David Benavidez, and a few other notable names. But sooner or later, they’ll need to engage with fighters aligned with Saudi interests to arrange significant bouts. That’ll be the real test—whether the loyalty between PBC and its roster holds or if fighters decide to explore greener pastures elsewhere for independence or better prospects.
Ring Magazine’s Controversial Promotion
Hi Paul,
I don’t have a question per se, but I’m outraged by how the Ryan Garcia/Devin Haney/Teofimo Lopez card is being promoted with backing from Turki’s Ring Magazine. Ryan Garcia has faced accusations of PED use and has made offensive, racist remarks with limited backlash. Meanwhile, Teofimo Lopez has frequently made contentious comments and embraced divisive rhetoric. Adding to the mess, they’re all associating with Andrew Tate, a figure marred by various serious allegations, and flaunting it as if it’s good publicity.
The whole promotional strategy for this card is appalling, and it’s worsened by Ring Magazine, which used to be a revered journalistic outlet, now seeming to endorse this circus. I had my reservations about the Saudi influence in boxing, and this fiasco only solidifies my opposition. I’m definitely not supporting this event with my money.
— John from NY
Hey John,
You’ve nailed it completely. Frankly, boxing has been far too lenient with racist comments and behavior. This particular card showcases two of the worst offenders—Garcia and Teofimo. It seems like the organizers are just pushing this out with little concern for integrity or etiquette. Ring Magazine and the Saudi backers appear to be more interested in the money than maintaining any semblance of class. Normally, I’m not one to harp on issues, but this really tests even my tolerance for the sport’s lack of decorum.
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