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Benavidez Ducking Beterbiev? Choosing Bivol Signals More Than Just Strategy
David Benavidez, known as "The Mexican Monster," is drawing criticism for openly stating his preference to fight Dmitry Bivol rather than Artur Beterbiev next. This revelation has led fans and analysts to speculate that Benavidez is strategically dodging a dangerous opponent in Beterbiev, whose relentless power and inside fighting style would pose a nightmare matchup for him.
Benavidez’s reasoning for targeting Bivol (23-1, 12 KOs) centers on their shared history in sparring and his belief that beating Bivol would elevate his standing above Canelo Alvarez in the eyes of fans. However, this narrative raises questions about Benavidez’s confidence and ability to handle top-tier competition at light heavyweight, especially after his grueling battle against David Morrell last weekend.
Bivol: The “Safer” Choice?
On the surface, Bivol seems like the easier target. Known for his technical skill and defensive prowess, Bivol lacks the knockout power and ferocity that defines Beterbiev’s style. Benavidez has admitted he sees Bivol as the logical choice to boost his résumé and prove his superiority over Canelo, stating, “When I beat Bivol, that would make my case that I’m better than Canelo.”
What’s more, Benavidez is likely banking on familiarity; his previous sparring sessions with Bivol have likely given him confidence in how to approach the fight. But critics argue that this approach signals a desire to avoid the greater risk: Artur Beterbiev (21-0, 20 KOs), the undefeated knockout artist who has left a trail of destruction in his path.
The Beterbiev Factor
Artur Beterbiev isn’t just dangerous; he’s devastating. With a 100% KO rate, Beterbiev combines brute strength with technical precision, making him arguably the most feared man in the light heavyweight division. Benavidez’s volume-punching style would likely play into Beterbiev’s hands, as he excels at breaking down opponents in close quarters with crushing body shots and uppercuts.
Adding to the intrigue is Benavidez’s performance against David Morrell. The Cuban fighter exposed serious vulnerabilities in Benavidez’s game, leaving him battered, bruised, and looking like a shadow of his former self. If Morrell could inflict that level of damage, it’s hard to imagine Benavidez surviving Beterbiev’s onslaught.
Damage Control or Career Preservation?
Benavidez’s reluctance to fight Beterbiev is also practical. At just 26 years old, he’s already absorbed a significant amount of punishment in his last few outings. Facing Beterbiev could shorten his career or permanently derail his trajectory. Critics, however, argue that boxing is a sport where legacy is built on taking risks and fighting the best, not strategically avoiding the toughest challenges.
The Canelo Comparison
Benavidez’s argument that beating Bivol proves he’s better than Canelo Alvarez is shaky at best. Canelo moved up to light heavyweight as a natural middleweight and lost to Bivol primarily due to size and stylistic mismatches. While Bivol’s victory over Canelo was impressive, it doesn’t necessarily make him the most dangerous fighter at 175 pounds. That title belongs to Beterbiev, and unless Benavidez is willing to step into the ring with him, he’ll have a hard time convincing fans he’s the best in the division—or better than Canelo.
A Legacy on the Line
Benavidez’s decision to pursue Bivol over Beterbiev may be the safe choice, but it’s not one that will win him fans or solidify his legacy. Boxing history is filled with examples of fighters who earned their reputations by taking on the toughest challenges. Avoiding Beterbiev, the division’s boogeyman, could haunt Benavidez in the long run, leaving his career defined by what could have been.
In the end, the path Benavidez chooses will reveal what matters most to him: short-term safety or long-term greatness. For now, fans can only speculate, but the shadow of Beterbiev looms large over "The Mexican Monster" and his ambitions.
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