Cutman Russ Anber believes David Benavidez can derail newly crowned undisputed champion Dmitry Bivol or former champion Artur Beterbiev should they ever meet. Noting Benavidez’s aggressiveness and power, Anber sees him as "a live dog" against either man, calling those potential showdowns "fight of the year" material. However, with Bivol's team eyeing a possible trilogy bout against Beterbiev or a high-profile rematch with Canelo Alvarez, Benavidez's path to a title shot at 175 might remain blocked.
The WBC has already designated Benavidez as the mandatory challenger for Bivol’s belt, but sources close to Matchroom indicate they’re not keen to risk a tough stylistic matchup. Benavidez has proven he can impose his strength on bigger opponents, most recently battling David Morrell in a bout where he appeared rattled at times but fought through adversity to maintain control. Whether the "Mexican Monster" can push Bivol or Beterbiev into a corner is a question fans would love answered, but timing, politics, and promotional agendas all complicate the equation.
For now, Benavidez may have to wait on the sidelines, as Turki Alalshikh focuses on other marquee fights: a Bivol-Beterbiev trilogy and possibly luring Canelo Alvarez back to 175. Benavidez, 26, is in his prime and eager for a defining victory, but his management must navigate a gauntlet of obligations and negotiations before he can force the issue.
Benavidez's career is available here.
Image Credit: The Tennessean