David Benavidez remains at the center of boxing discussions, not for a fight that's set, but for a potential clash with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez that fans are clamoring for. Despite Alvarez’s focus on his upcoming bout with Jaime Munguia on May 4, the narrative continues to be overshadowed by what many see as a missed opportunity against Benavidez. Canelo’s remarks about the financial and competitive aspects of a fight with Benavidez have sparked controversy, with Benavidez’s camp claiming they accepted a $5 million offer only to be met with silence from Canelo's team.
Jose Benavidez Sr., David’s father and trainer, has expressed frustration over Canelo’s demands, suggesting a fear on Alvarez’s part to face his son. The elder Benavidez sees these financial hurdles as a way for Canelo to avoid a fight he believes could end his reign in the super middleweight division. According to Benavidez Sr., their side is willing to make any concession, including a rehydration clause, to make this highly anticipated fight happen.
This willingness to bend on conditions highlights the Benavidez camp’s dedication to securing a match with Alvarez. Despite Canelo’s claims of Benavidez bringing “nothing to the table,” the challenge from Benavidez is viewed as a legitimate threat to Alvarez’s dominance in the division. Benavidez’s record and stature as Alvarez’s WBC mandatory challenger only add to the clamor for this fight to take place, with the boxing community questioning the WBC’s reluctance to push for the matchup.
As Canelo prepares for Munguia, the ongoing saga with Benavidez represents a critical narrative in modern boxing: the fight everyone wants but remains just out of reach. Benavidez’s move to light heavyweight in the meantime signifies a forward-looking approach, yet the possibility of returning to super middleweight for a Canelo fight remains a tantalizing prospect.
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