David Benavidez is gearing up for an exciting weekend as he accepts an invitation from Turki Alalshikh to witness the much-anticipated rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol in Riyadh. As a top contender with a flawless record of 30 wins and 24 knockouts, Benavidez, the WBC mandatory challenger, will have a prime seat at ringside for this thrilling showdown.
Recently, Benavidez faced off against WBA ‘regular’ light heavyweight champion David Morrell on February 1st, and while he emerged victorious with a unanimous decision after twelve grueling rounds, it wasn’t without cost. The hard-hitting Cuban left Benavidez with notable facial swelling, a testament to the brutal power difference between them.
In Riyadh, spectators are keen to see how Benavidez’s skills might stack up against someone like Beterbiev, should their paths cross in the ring. With Beterbiev’s renowned resilience, Benavidez might find it challenging to make a significant impact, especially if his volume-punching approach leaves him vulnerable.
Word from The Ring has confirmed that 28-year-old Benavidez will be in attendance for Saturday’s eagerly awaited Beterbiev-Bivol II clash. Should Beterbiev claim victory, Benavidez is lined up to be his next opponent in the quest for undisputed status. However, if Bivol clinches the win, fans can look forward to a potential trilogy, which Turki Alalshikh could promptly organize before the year ends.
For Benavidez, missing out on an immediate title fight might not be so bad. Participating in the undercard could allow him to face formidable talents like Joshua Buatsi, Anthony Yarde, or Gilberto Ramirez, keeping his momentum alive. Interestingly, Benavidez and his father, Jose Benavidez Sr, have expressed interest in a duel with Ramirez, although a bout against IBF cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia would surely captivate the boxing world should Benavidez decide to step up to cruiserweight. Even so, they’re aware that a matchup with Ramirez holds less allure, considering Ramirez’s past defeats.
In any case, Benavidez’s ringside attendance this weekend is bound to keep fans on their toes, eagerly awaiting his next big move in the sport.
