Interim WBC super-middleweight champion David Benavidez (27-0, 23 KOs) has been the subject of news headlines as of late with the rumors of a fight with Demetrius ‘Boo Boo’ Andrade (32-0, 19 KOs) nearing the finish line. It’s a good fight on paper but risky for Benavidez, who has been put in a position where fights like the one with Andrade are his only option. Although Benavidez has told ProBoxTV that the fight will likely land in November at a venue in Las Vegas or Southern California, we are all awaiting the official news release announcing the event, which is rumored to be as early as this week.
Although the 26-year-old Benavidez hasn’t had any issues lately making the weight, it’s becoming more difficult for his 6’ 2” frame to squeeze down to 168 pounds. ProBoxTV caught up with Benavidez and asked him how much time he feels he has left at super middleweight. “Probably three fights; I’m close to the end at 168. I just want to make these fights happen. I’ve worked my whole career to unify these belts, so I can’t go until I get that fight,” said Benavidez.
The decision to move up is becoming easier and easier as Canelo Alvarez continues to dominate in the super middleweight division. With Canelo having all the belts and not showing any intentions of fighting Benavidez, the move to light heavyweight can come sooner. There are opportunities in that weight class, whether unified champion Artur Beterbiev or WBA champ Dmitry Bivol. Both are exciting options as Benavidez has sparred countless rounds with Bivol, making that fight much desired, and the one with Beterbiev would be a matchup between two savage fighters.
For now, Benavidez will look to face Andrade at super middleweight in November. It’s a fight that Andrade desperately needs and one that Benavidez could do without but wants it because of the challenge it brings. Next year will determine the future of Benavidez at super middleweight, but for now, let’s hope the Andrade fight gets finalized, and we get that one right before Thanksgiving.
