Canelo Alvarez ‘ducking’ for years is confusing undefeated rival David Benavidez

'Mexican Monster' David Benavidez reignites the discussions about his potential fight against superstar Canelo Alvarez.


Canelo Alvarez ‘ducking’ for years is confusing undefeated rival David Benavidez

David Benavidez talks about his potential fight with Canelo Alvarez (Instagram/@benavidez300 and @canelo)

Boxing sensation Canelo Alvarez currently holds multiple world titles, including the WBA, WBC, WBO, and The Ring titles in the super middleweight category. Due to his impressive popularity, Canelo has become a highly sought-after opponent in the boxing world. One of the names linked to a potential fight against him is interim WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez.

These two boxers competed in the same weight category at one point. As such, they have consistently generated excitement in the boxing community. Recently, the attention shifted to David Benavidez, who raised some questions during an appearance on the ALL THE SMOKE FIGHT podcast with Andre Ward. Benavidez expressed curiosity about why Canelo Alvarez hasn’t fought him.

If I’m sitting here telling Canelo I can knock him out… why doesn’t he just come shut me up and make a lot of money?

David Benavidez via ALL THE SMOKE FIGHT podcast
YouTube video

Interestingly, a majority of the boxing community has wanted these two Mexican stars to collide against each other. Despite the anticipation, a potential matchup between Canelo and Benavidez has never materialized. One significant reason for this is Alvarez’s ongoing refusal to fight against other Mexican boxers. Consequently, he has faced severe criticism from many notable individuals for this decision.

FS Video

However, Canelo had his reasons for not wanting to risk his legacy against a rising boxer like Benavidez. Meanwhile, the Mexican Monster is set to face David Morrell this weekend at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. As for Alvarez, the multiple world title holder is rumored to be going up against a formidable opponent soon.

David Benavidez shares his prediction for Canelo Alvarez’s rumored upcoming fight

Due to his stature in the boxing community, many boxers, including David Benavidez, want to compete against Canelo Alvarez. One notable name on the list is Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford, the reigning WBA super welterweight champion. Interestingly, the American boxer appears to be particularly interested in this matchup for one major reason.

Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford are set to face each other in September 2025
Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford are set to face each other in September 2025 (Image via Instagram/@tbudcrawford and @canelo)

Crawford is a veteran in the boxing community, and at this stage of his career, like many fighters, ‘Bud’ is also interested in big-money bouts. A few months ago, he stated that a fight against Canelo would be significant for both his legacy and his bank balance, despite the considerable weight difference. Interestingly, David Benavidez has shared his prediction for the matchup.

Crawford is a one of a kind fighter, and especially if he knows he’s going to 168 he’ll probably bulk up, but weight classes have to be respected. Canelo is the more natural super-middleweight. If Crawford is going against Canelo, in his first fight at 168, he has a lot of disadvantages against him, so I feel like Canelo would win. He’s bigger and more experienced so I give him the edge.

David Benavidez via Sean Zittel on YouTube
YouTube video

Saudi GEA chairman Turki Alalshikh recently confirmed that he is exploring the potential matchup between Canelo and Crawford. According to top boxing journalist Mike Coppinger, the fight is speculated to take place in September 2025 in Las Vegas. However, there have been no confirmations from either fighter’s camp as of now.

Related: Canelo Alvarez nickname: What is the story behind the Mexican boxer’s nickname?