According to Luis Decubas Sr., manager of David Morrell Jr., David Benavidez showed signs of “fear” and emotional turmoil at the final press conference for their Saturday night showdown. Decubas believes Benavidez now realizes he’s up against a bigger, stronger, and more technically skilled fighter in Morrell, one who won’t be bullied the way Benavidez’s previous opponents were.
“He looked drained up there,” said Decubas, pointing out that Benavidez often feasted on smaller or older adversaries. He contends that Demetrius Andrade and Caleb Plant, among others, were “naturally lighter” when they faced Benavidez. Now, confronted by a naturally larger and still-ascendant Cuban fighter like Morrell, Decubas believes the “Mexican Monster” is panicking. “He’s been talking about his old sparring stories, but those don’t mean anything,” Decubas continued, emphasizing that Morrell’s Cuban upbringing and amateur pedigree have forged a fighter who “doesn’t know fear.”
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For Decubas, the contrast in demeanor at the press conference spoke volumes. While Benavidez appeared tense and irritated, Morrell was all smiles, seemingly as relaxed as if he were heading to a social event.
Decubas predicts that once Morrell’s power and reach advantages come into play, Benavidez’s confidence will crumble inside the ring - and the result will be a devastating knockout victory for the Cuban.
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Image Credit: The Ring