David Benavidez sent a thunderous message to the boxing world after a dominant second-round win over David Morrell, immediately focusing attention on the fight he (and the fans) have been demanding: Canelo Alvarez.
Benavidez makes a statement
Going into the ring against Morrell, many expected a competitive matchup. Morrell, an undefeated Cuban boxer with a combination of speed and power, was seen as a legitimate threat to Benavidez’s dominance. However, from the opening bell, it was clear that this was a one-sided contest.
Benavidez wasted no time in asserting his control, pressuring Morrell with relentless combinations and a suffocating offensive attack. In the second round, the inevitable happened: Benavidez landed a devastating left hook, followed by a flurry of brutal punches that sent Morrell to the canvas. The referee had seen enough and waved off the fight as the arena erupted.
With this resounding victory, Benavidez not only reaffirmed his status as the most dangerous contender in the super middleweight division, but also secured the biggest bonus of his career. Reports suggest that his earnings for the fight, including bonuses and PPV shares, marked a record for the 27-year-old Mexican-American star.
“BRING ME CANELO!”
Still excited in the post-fight interview, Benavidez wasted no time in challenging his long-awaited opponent.
“There’s no one left. Bring Canelo! That’s the fight the world wants to see and I’m ready to take that belt!”
For years, the boxing world has clamored for a showdown between Benavidez and Canelo Alvarez, the undisputed super middleweight champion. While Canelo has remained focused on other challengers, Benavidez’s latest performance puts undeniable pressure on the Mexican superstar to finally step into the ring with his biggest threat.
Will Canelo answer the call?
Canelo Alvarez has long been the face of boxing, but at 33, questions are beginning to arise as to whether he will take on the young, hungry challenger or continue on his own carefully curated path. The demand for a Benavidez-Canelo showdown has never been greater, and with the super-middleweight division lacking true challengers for either man, the time may finally be right.
With an explosive performance, record payday and a passionate challenge to Canelo, David Benavidez has made one thing clear: he’s not going to wait any longer. Now, the pressure is on Canelo Alvarez to respond. Will he accept the challenge or will the boxing world be left wondering what could have been?