Former super middleweight champion David Benavidez is stepping into the light heavyweight division for the first time, challenging Oleksandr Gvozdyk for the interim WBC belt on the undercard of Gervonta Davis vs. Frank Martin.
Between them, Benavidez and Gvozdyk have only suffered one defeat, with Gvozdyk holding a record of 20-1 and aiming to assert himself in the competitive 175-pound weight class. The Ukrainian’s sole loss to Artur Beterbiev in 2019 led to a substantial hiatus, but he has since returned with an impressive 3-0 record starting from February 2023.
This comeback will be a significant test for the highly talented Benavidez, who has been eager for a major bout with Canelo Alvarez but is now seizing this opportunity in a higher weight class.
The stakes are high for both fighters. Here’s everything you need to know about the fight, along with a preview and prediction:
When: Saturday, June 14 at 8 p.m. ET
Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas
Live Stream: Amazon Prime PPV
Odds: Benavidez -650 (Bet $650 to win $100); Gvozdyk +450 (Bet $100 to win $450)
Tickets: Available at Vivid Seats
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
All eyes will be on Benavidez as he enters this bout as a heavy favorite against a former world champion in his light heavyweight debut.
“After 10 years in the super middleweight division, I feel my body is maturing, and it’s time for me to move up to 175 pounds,” Benavidez explained to Jose M. Romero of The Arizona Republic. “While I still hope for a fight with Canelo at 168, right now, moving to 175 feels like the best move for me.”
This fight will gauge Benavidez’s ability to carry his power into the heavier weight class, having secured 24 of his 28 victories by stoppage. Gvozdyk, known for his outside boxing skills, poses a challenge with his tactical approach.
While Benavidez’s combination punching is effective in wearing down opponents, closing the distance against Gvozdyk’s reach will be crucial. Caleb Plant showed early success against Benavidez, suggesting Gvozdyk could employ a similar strategy effectively.
Prediction:
There is a plausible case for an upset against Benavidez, given his eagerness for a Canelo fight and Gvozdyk’s impressive resume. However, the prospect of jeopardizing a future bout with Alvarez should motivate Benavidez to perform at his best.
A focused Benavidez is a formidable force in the light heavyweight division, and this fight could showcase his potential dominance.
Benavidez to win via 9th-round TKO.
Stay tuned for live coverage from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime PPV.
