David Benavidez Wants his WBC Title Shot Regardless of Canelo Alvarez
A few things are clear regarding two-time 168-pound champion David “The Red Flag” Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs): he wants the smoke and is willing to face anyone in and around the super middleweight division. But if there is one opponent he would love to face more than any other, it would be the current undisputed champion, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (58-2-2, 39 KOs).
EITHER FIGHT OR GIVE UP THE TITLE
During an interview on The Last Stand Podcast, Benavidez talked about his chances of facing Alvarez this year.
“I think (promoter) Sampson Lewkowicz is going to have a talk with Mauricio Suliaman of the WBC because I feel like it’s time. I’ve earned a spot to fight for the WBC belt, and if Canelo is not going to defend, then he’s going to have to pass it down or let somebody else defend it.
I feel like this is my right. I’ve earned this right. So, we’re definitely going to go out and talk to the WBC, and we’ll see what happens.”
Observers would welcome an Alvarez – Benavidez showdown. Most fans believe Benavidez is Alvarez’s biggest threat at 168. But the Mexican superstar has been coy and dismissive of Benavidez. When asked about facing him, the redhead claims Benavidez has not done enough to earn such an opportunity. There is a segment of the populous who view his comment as a sign he’s avoiding, if not outright ducking, the 26-year-old from Phoenix, Arizona.
Up next for Benavidez is a grudge match against ex-IBF champion Caleb Plant in April 2022. Should Benavidez win, he wants his chance to dethrone the undisputed champ. At long last, will Benavidez land the fight he longs for more than any other? It’s something fans and pundits will keep their eye on in 2023.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
