In a surprising turn of events, David Benavidez has announced his intention to move up to the cruiserweight division to challenge Gilberto Ramirez for the WBO and WBA world titles. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, as Benavidez was widely expected to continue his campaign at light heavyweight.
Benavidez, who last fought in November with a stunning seventh-round knockout of Anthony Yarde, made the announcement during an interview on the Toma Todito Boxing Show. The victory over Yarde was Benavidez’s third at light heavyweight, making his decision to move up in weight all the more unexpected.
“I have sparred with Zurdo [Ramirez] for a long time,” Benavidez revealed. “After seeing him move up to cruiserweight, I discussed with Oscar De La Hoya the possibility of fighting Ramirez. I told him I was ready to make the fight happen if Ramirez was interested.”
Benavidez’s relationship with Ramirez’s promoter, De La Hoya, is expected to facilitate the fight’s finalization. Although the bout is yet to be formally announced, it appears to be all but confirmed.
Initially, Benavidez was rumored to face Callum Smith, while Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev were speculated to be heading towards a trilogy bout. However, Benavidez has different plans. “I could have stayed at light heavyweight and fought Callum Smith,” he said. “But I want to make the biggest fights happen. I’d rather go up to cruiserweight, fight for two belts, and then come back down to light heavyweight.”
Benavidez’s ambition is clear: he wants to be remembered as one of the greatest boxers of his generation. “Greatness isn’t given; it is taken,” he declared. Already considered one of the sport’s best pound-for-pound fighters, a world title at cruiserweight would further solidify his legacy.
Looking ahead, Benavidez has already identified his next targets. “After I beat Zurdo Ramirez, I want to fight Beterbiev and Bivol,” he stated. “I only want to fight the best of the best.”
With his sights set on cruiserweight glory, Benavidez is poised to make a significant impact in the division. His upcoming clash with Ramirez promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both fighters bring impressive credentials and a hunger for victory into the ring.
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