Former boxing champion Paulie Malignaggi has made headlines by asserting that Saul “Canelo” Álvarez is deliberately avoiding a showdown with David Benavidez. In a recent interview with TalkSport, Malignaggi didn’t mince words, claiming that Canelo’s reluctance to face Benavidez stems from the knowledge that the young fighter would defeat him with ease.
Malignaggi drew a vivid comparison to emphasize his point, stating, “I think David Benavidez runs him over like a train running over a car that’s stuck on the train tracks.” This metaphor highlights the former champion’s confidence in Benavidez’s ability to dominate Canelo, should the two ever meet in the ring.
The boxing world has long anticipated a clash between the two, but Canelo’s hesitancy to face his mandatory challenger has fueled speculation and criticism. “His apprehension to fight the mandatory continuously only cements my opinion,” Malignaggi added, doubling down on his belief that Canelo is avoiding a fight he knows he can’t win.
Malignaggi’s remarks have reignited the debate among fans and analysts alike, with many questioning whether Canelo will ever step into the ring with Benavidez. As the pressure mounts, the boxing community is left wondering if Canelo will rise to the challenge or continue to evade what could be one of the most significant fights of his career.