The prospect of a showdown between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and David Benavidez seems more distant than ever, as Canelo has made it clear why he is reluctant to face the former super-middleweight champion. In a candid interview with The Ring Magazine, the unified super-middleweight champion opened up about his reasons for avoiding the highly-anticipated clash.
Benavidez’s Rise and Frustration
David Benavidez, the youngest super-middleweight champion in history, has fought his way back into contention by capturing the WBC Interim title. Despite securing his position as a mandatory challenger, Benavidez failed to force a fight with Alvarez. Canelo dismissed the bout, stating that Benavidez “brings nothing to the table” and even attached a $200 million price tag to the matchup.
In response to Canelo’s unwillingness, Benavidez has moved up to the light-heavyweight division. While Canelo has previously competed at light-heavyweight, a potential fight with Benavidez in that weight class also seems unlikely for now.
Canelo Addresses ‘Disrespect’ from Benavidez
Speaking to The Ring Magazine, Alvarez cited Benavidez’s approach and lack of respect as primary reasons for avoiding the fight.
“Yeah. You know, at this point I fight with everybody, with champions, with all the best,” said Canelo. “When somebody approaches you like that, and calls you out like that, you don’t need to give them money. Like I say, I can do whatever I want. I just don’t like the way he approaches taking the fight.”
Benavidez’s recent comments, including calling Alvarez “a f***ing pussy” in a heated interview, appear to have further widened the rift between the two fighters.
Canelo’s Respect for Terence Crawford
In stark contrast to his views on Benavidez, Canelo expressed admiration for Terence Crawford, with whom he is reportedly close to finalizing a fight. The American has called out Alvarez respectfully, which the Mexican superstar appreciates.
“He’s wanted the fight and been respectful. ‘I want Canelo.’ He’s saying nothing bad about me,” Alvarez said.
Future Possibilities
Despite his current stance, Canelo has not ruled out a potential fight with Benavidez in the future.
“You never know. Maybe someday I wake up and I say I want to beat this guy,” Canelo hinted.
For now, however, Alvarez appears focused on a likely matchup with Crawford, who would need to move up two weight classes for the fight. With both fighters eager to prove their dominance, this bout promises to be one of the biggest in boxing.
While a clash between Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez remains a dream for fans, the unified champion’s comments suggest it won’t happen anytime soon. As Alvarez prepares for new challenges, including a potential blockbuster fight with Terence Crawford, the boxing world will be watching closely.
