Next month, David Benavidez chases a statement victory over Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez in what will be a challenging cruiserweight title bid for the former super-middleweight world champion. Despite that upcoming test, there is another man whom Benavidez believes will give him his hardest night’s work.
‘The Mexican Monster’ is praised for his famously front-footed, ruthlessly aggressive fighting style, along with his willingness to take on all comers in his quest for greatness.
He is the reigning WBC light heavyweight champion, but it seems divisional rivals Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev are hoping to tee up a trilogy clash, with both men expected to fight alternate opponents and then collide at either the end of this year or in early 2027.
As a result, with Benavidez somewhat frozen out, the 29-year-old is setting about a temporary move up to 200lbs, before a return to his mission of becoming the undisputed light-heavyweight world champion.
With his targets clear, Benavidez told ESPN Knockout that he believes Bivol will be the toughest fight of his current hit list, which also includes Beterbiev and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez.
“All of those fighters are tough. That is the highest level in the entire sport, but I believe 100% in what I can be. The toughest fight, in my opinion, is with Dmitry Bivol because he has beaten everyone, Canelo and [Artur] Beterbiev too.”
Master technician Bivol – who has sparred with Benavidez in the past – has lost just once in his professional campaign, defeated by Beterbiev in their first undisputed encounter by close points decision. He reversed the result in the rematch.
Zurdo-Benavidez takes place on Saturday, May 2, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas – if Benavidez wins he is likely to call Bivol’s name.