David Benavidez showed signs of weight struggles during a media workout ahead of his light heavyweight bout against David Morrell. Set for Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, and broadcast live on Prime Video, PPV and Kayo, the clash has been generating lots of buzz - especially with reports that Benavidez looked notably drained just days before weighing in.
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The 28-year-old “Mexican Monster” recently jumped from super middleweight to 175 pounds last year, though some suggest even that move might not be enough to offset what looks like a challenging weight cut. Some have gone so far as to say that Benavidez, who once towered over smaller opponents at 168, now seems “emaciated” at 175, leading to concerns about his stamina. Meanwhile, Morrell appears fit and comfortable, showing no visible strain in his own final media appearances.
Benavidez insists he’s ready to make a statement. He points to his experience - both as a professional and from his win over Caleb Plant - and says he’ll punish Morrell “from every angle,” focusing on diverse combinations rather than headhunting. Morrell, for his part, remains confident and unruffled. If Benavidez truly is operating at only a fraction of his best, we may see the challenger attempt to exploit any weakness en route to a potential upset on Saturday.
Image Credit: PBC