BOXING

Canelo Alvarez reveals the shocking truth behind avoiding a fight with Benavidez

Canelo Alvarez explains why he refuses to fight David Benavidez, sharing his thoughts on the challenger’s approach and how it impacts his decision.

 WBC/WBA/WBO super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez gives a thumbs up as he leaves a ceremonial weigh-in in Toshiba Plaza at T-Mobile Arena on September 13, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Alvarez is scheduled to defend his titles against Berlanga at the arena September 14.
© hoto by Steve Marcus/Getty Images WBC/WBA/WBO super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez gives a thumbs up as he leaves a ceremonial weigh-in in Toshiba Plaza at T-Mobile Arena on September 13, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Alvarez is scheduled to defend his titles against Berlanga at the arena September 14.

The rivalry between Canelo Álvarez and David Benavidez has become one of the hottest topics in the boxing world in recent years. Despite the constant requests from fans, a fight between the two seems to be drifting further away from happening. But why does Canelo refuse to face Benavidez?

The Mexican champion has been clear about his stance: Benavidez’s behavior doesn’t sit well with him. The constant provocations and defiant language from the young fighter have played a significant role in Canelo’s decision to avoid the matchup.

In contrast, Canelo has praised the attitude of Terence Crawford, another boxer who has expressed a strong desire to face him. “He’s wanted the fight and has been respectful. ‘I want Canelo,’ he’s said. He’s saying nothing bad about me,” Canelo told The Ring Magazine.

Advertisement

What did Canelo say about a fight with Benavidez?

Canelo has been vocal about his reasons for not wanting to face David Benavidez, and in a recent interview, he elaborated on his stance. “Yeah, you know, at this point, I fight with everybody—champions, the best.” Canelo said “When someone approaches you like that and calls you out like that, you don’t need to give them money. Like I said, I can do whatever I want. I just don’t like the way he approaches taking the fight.”

David Benavidez

David Benavidez is trying to get a fight against Canelo Alvarez. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)

Advertisement

Money isn’t everything for Canelo

Despite the large sums of money a Canelo vs. Benavidez fight could generate, pride and respect seem to matter more to the Mexican champion. Canelo has repeatedly stated that he doesn’t fight for money, but for his legacy and recognition.

Canelo Alvarez wins backing from former champion for high-stakes Terence Crawford showdown

see also

Canelo’s next challenges

Although Canelo doesn’t completely rule out the possibility of facing Benavidez in the future, he appears more interested in other challenges for now. A fight against Terence Crawford seems to be shaping up as Canelo’s next big battle, and it promises to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the year.

Advertisement

ALSO READ

Where to watch Aryna Sabalenka vs Madison Keys live for free in the USA: 2025 Australian Open
Tennis

Where to watch Aryna Sabalenka vs Madison Keys live for free in the USA: 2025 Australian Open

Jerry Jones reveals unexpected head coach for Cowboys ahead of 2025 season
NFL

Jerry Jones reveals unexpected head coach for Cowboys ahead of 2025 season

NBA News: Anthony Davis reveals Lakers are preparing for LeBron’s future retirement
NBA

NBA News: Anthony Davis reveals Lakers are preparing for LeBron’s future retirement

New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing names the greatest NBA player of all time
NBA

New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing names the greatest NBA player of all time

Better Collective Logo