Glove Connection: Who Will David Benavidez Choose?

The boxing world will have to wait another week for David Benavidez’s decision on which WBC belt he will keep. The July 12 deadline for the WBC super middleweight and light heavyweight interim champion to decide has been extended until July 19. This extension follows a two-week grace period previously granted by the WBC at Benavidez’s request. While the world awaits, let’s look at the pros and cons of Benavidez choosing 168 or 175:

The Case for 168

At super middleweight, the allure of a showdown with the undisputed champion, Canelo Alvarez, is undeniable. Alvarez, with a record of 61-2-2 and 39 knockouts, has been the coveted opponent for Benavidez and fans alike for several years. A clash between these two fighters would be a blockbuster event, promising fireworks and potentially a career-defining moment for Benavidez.

Canelo has shown no intention of relinquishing his super middleweight titles, signaling that a fight with Benavidez could finally be on the horizon. Given the excitement and revenue the fight would generate, staying at 168 pounds to secure this bout seems a logical choice.

The Case Against 168

However, despite being the top contender at super middleweight for the better part of a decade, Benavidez has yet to secure a fight with Alvarez. Despite being the mandatory challenger, Benavidez has faced repeated delays and refusals from Canelo’s camp. The WBC, led by President Mauricio Sulaiman, has taken a laissez-faire approach and has not mandated the fight, leaving Benavidez in a perpetual state of uncertainty and boxing fans confused.

Without the guaranteed prospect of a fight with Canelo, the 168-pound division loses much of its allure for Benavidez. The lack of a confirmed mega-fight means that staying at super middleweight could result in more of the same frustration and missed opportunities.

The Case for 175

In the light heavyweight division, an equally compelling, albeit less lucrative path awaits Benavidez. The unified champion Artur Beterbiev, with a flawless record of 20-0 and all victories by knockout, is set to face Dmitry Bivol in October to determine the undisputed champion. Benavidez, as the most lucrative opponent at 175 pounds, would be in line for a shot at the winner.

A move to light heavyweight presents Benavidez with the chance to become a two-division champion and cement his legacy by facing the best in the division. The potential for an undisputed title fight, combined with the prestige of defeating either Beterbiev or Bivol, makes this an enticing option.

The Case Against 175

Despite the allure of a light heavyweight title shot, the timing could be problematic for Benavidez. The Beterbiev vs. Bivol showdown in October includes a rematch clause, meaning that any chance for Benavidez to fight for the undisputed title would be delayed until at least the summer of 2025. This extended wait could be a significant deterrent, as Benavidez would need to stay active and relevant in the interim, possibly taking risky fights that could jeopardize his title shot.

What Should He Do?

At 168 pounds, the prospect of a long-awaited clash with Canelo Alvarez beckons, but only if the fight can be secured. At 175 pounds, the opportunity to fight for the undisputed title against Beterbiev or Bivol presents a compelling challenge, albeit with a potentially long wait.

As the extended July 19 deadline approaches, Benavidez and his team must weigh these factors carefully. Will he stay at super middleweight and continue to chase the elusive fight with Canelo, or will he move up to light heavyweight and position himself for a shot at undisputed glory? The boxing world waits eagerly for his decision.