“Canelo, Bivol, and Beterbiev… I knock out all three. All three in the same night,” Benavidez said in an interview with ESPN Knockout, doubling down when asked which of the three he believed he could finish.

While the claim of beating all three in one night is impossible, it shows how Benavidez is building his “Monster” image and trying to get attention from fans and the boxing world. His goal is to make it impossible for the biggest names to ignore him.

Moving up to light heavyweight

Since moving up to 175 pounds, Benavidez, who recently admitted that a clash with Canelo may never happen, has shown he can hold his own against bigger fighters. He no longer enjoys the size advantage he had at 168, so he now leans more on his speed, combinations, and endurance.

Bivol is one of the toughest challenges. The Russian fighter uses distance, footwork, and a strong jab to control the ring. Experts think he could avoid Benavidez’s attacks and win by points, but Benavidez believes his speed and pressure style can overcome those defenses.

The Beterbiev test

Beterbiev is a very different type of challenge. He is extremely strong and excels at fighting up close. Benavidez is faster and throws more combinations, but taking a solid punch from Beterbiev is a big risk. This fight could go either way, with Benavidez’s youth and stamina against Beterbiev’s power and experience.

Canelo remains the most elusive target. By naming him along with Bivol and Beterbiev, Benavidez keeps the conversation going and builds pressure for a future matchup. His statements, while bold, clearly show he wants to be seen as one of the top fighters at 175 pounds and is ready for the biggest tests in the division.

Canelo Alvarez is entering the final stage of his storied career. For that reason, fans believe it is time for him to take on the challengers he has previously bypassed, most notably Benavidez, who has long been the mandatory contender at super middleweight.

However, Benavidez himself, who Jake Paul has admitted he would never face, has grown tired of waiting for the call from the Alvarez camp. He recently admitted that despite continuous requests from the boxing world, the bout may remain a “what if” in boxing history.

“I feel like I’ve moved on, but I don’t think the people have moved on, to be honest with you,” Benavidez told TMZ Sports. “I always have hope that the fight is going to happen because the fight is too big — it’s too big a fight to leave it on the table.”

Retirement looms for Canelo

In recent interviews, Canelo Alvarez has stated his intention to retire by age 37; he is currently 35. However, his most recent performances suggest that his departure from the ring could come sooner than expected.

Last September, Canelo was defeated by Terence Crawford in a result that stunned the boxing community. Crawford, who moved up two weight classes to secure the win, unexpectedly retired shortly after, leaving Canelo without the immediate opportunity for a rematch to avenge the loss.

Without a clear path to a high-profile victory, the idea of retirement seems to be weighing more heavily on Alvarez. While he remains a legendary figure, his performance against Crawford proved that his physical prime may be behind him.

Could Canelo Alvarez face Jake Paul?

Jake Paul has repeatedly voiced his desire to step into the ring with Canelo Alvarez. While both men are coming off losses, Alvarez may now view a bout against the “Problem Child” as a viable financial opportunity before hanging up the gloves.

Following Paul’s dramatic knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in March 2026, a matchup with Alvarez could serve as a “bounce-back” opportunity for both. However, taking such a fight would likely signal the definitive end of Canelo’s status as an elite professional contender, shifting his legacy toward the “celebrity boxing” circuit.

Paul is set to meet Joshua on December 19 in what represents the biggest test of his boxing journey to date. As he continues to grow within the sport, Paul has revealed the one challenger he would outright refuse to fight: David Benavidez.

“There’s a very short list of people that I wouldn’t step into the ring with, and Benavidez is on that list,” Paul told ESPN. “That guy is different. His power, his speed, his cardio, his nonstop punching and relentless pressure. Your punches don’t mean s— to him. He has giant forearms that go from the bottom of his hip to the top of his head. You can’t get through his guard.”

A hidden message for Canelo Alvarez?

It is well known that Jake Paul has long pursued a fight against Canelo Alvarez. It is also no secret that the Mexican superstar has avoided a matchup with David Benavidez in recent years, leading many to interpret Paul’s comments about Benavidez as a subtle message aimed directly at Canelo.

Paul has proven himself to be a master at creating controversy. Fully aware that a bout against Alvarez would elevate his career to another level, Paul may be using the Benavidez remark as bait—suggesting that if Canelo continues to avoid his most dangerous rival, Paul could position himself as the alternative.

Earlier this year, reports surfaced that Canelo and Paul were in talks for an exhibition bout. However, the fight ultimately fell apart, and Alvarez opted to face Terence Crawford instead—a decision that proved costly, as he suffered a defeat.

A win over Joshua would change everything for Paul

There is little doubt that Anthony Joshua represents the toughest challenge Jake Paul has ever faced. Despite a difficult stretch in recent years, the British heavyweight remains in strong physical condition and, crucially, active—factors that significantly raise the difficulty level of this matchup.

If Paul were to defeat Joshua, a former world champion with global recognition, it would mark a complete turning point in his boxing career. A clean, controversy-free victory would give Paul the credibility he needs to justify a fight against elite active boxers—and could finally open the door to the long-sought showdown with Canelo Alvarez.

[Watch David Benavidez vs Anthony Yarde online in the US on DAZN]

David Benavidez returns to the ring for his first WBC light heavyweight title defense, and he’ll do it against seasoned British challenger Anthony Yarde in a matchup that instantly elevates the Night of Champions card.

The Mexican Monster faces one of the division’s most explosive punchers, creating a volatile mix of power, urgency, and high-stakes drama that boxing fans won’t want to overlook—so make sure you’re locked in when the bell rings.

When will the David Benavidez vs Anthony Yarde fight take place?

This highly anticipated WBC light heavyweight boxing showdown between David Benavidez and Anthony Yarde is set for this Saturday, November 22, at 9:00 PM (ET).

David Benavidez vs Anthony Yarde: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM
CT: 8:00 PM
MT: 7:00 PM
PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch David Benavidez vs Anthony Yarde in the USA

You can watch the 2025 boxing fight between David Benavidez and Anthony Yarde in the United States on DAZN.

While both fighters have publicly downplayed the chances of meeting in the ring, former world champion Tim Bradley offered a compelling analysis on what such a matchup could look like. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Bradley didn’t hesitate to break down the potential challenges for Crawford.

Bradley highlighted that Benavidez’s size and power would be a serious test for Crawford. “You have the skillset of Crawford and everything else he brings, but these guys have skills too and they’re bigger than him. That’s difficult. Canelo was the perfect size and style for Crawford, but when you start fighting giants like Benavidez who bring the size, volume, stamina, determination to win, the skill along with that,” he explained.

How Bradley sees the fight playing out

Bradley emphasized that Benavidez, currently the WBC light heavyweight champion, would bring both skill and physicality. “Benavidez is willing to walk through the fire to get his way in a fight, making him dangerous,” Bradley said.

He ultimately suggested the fight could be highly competitive, estimating a near-even matchup: “That’s a hell of a match-up. 60-40 either way, 55-45, 50-50, whatever you want to call it, but you never want to count out Terence Crawford, he’s that damn good.”

What’s next for Crawford?

Despite the buzz, Crawford’s coach recently hinted that the superstar might not return to the ring without a massive payday. Analyst Bernie Davis suggested that Crawford could hold out unless offered upwards of $100 million — a sum unlikely outside of another mega-fight scenario like his recent bout with Canelo. For now, the boxing world waits to see whether Crawford will seek another high-profile showdown or take a step back after cementing his legacy.

Among the names immediately thrown into the mix was David Benavidez, the undefeated power puncher who for years had pursued Canelo without success. Yet, while fans and promoters began dreaming of Crawford-Benavidez as the next mega-fight, the Arizona native made his stance crystal clear — it’s not happening.

It all started when Turki Alalshikh, the Saudi boxing powerbroker behind the Canelo-Crawford fight, hinted at his next dream matchup. “Can David Benavidez still make 168 pounds?” he posted on X (formerly Twitter), a message that quickly went viral and reignited a debate over Benavidez’s future.

Why David Benavidez won’t step into the ring with Crawford

During an October 6 interview with Fight Hub TV, Benavidez addressed the growing speculation and explained why a fight with Crawford is off the table — for good.

“I’m done with [super middleweight],” Benavidez said. “I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Crawford. He put on a hell of a performance. He’s up there with the Mount Rushmore of the greatest fighters of all time. Let Crawford do his thing, bro. At the end of the day, I have no interest in fighting Crawford. I have no interest in fighting at 168.”

The WBA light heavyweight champion — who currently fights at 174 pounds — was unequivocal about his priorities. “I wouldn’t even go to 168 for Canelo,” he added. “Let Crawford have his thing. He’s a great fighter. I’m done at 168.”

Even $120 million wouldn’t change his mind

When pressed about the possibility of fighting Crawford for a massive payday, Benavidez didn’t flinch. Asked whether he would consider dropping down to 168 pounds for $120 million, he dismissed the idea.

“I mean, $120 million sounds good,” he admitted. “But honestly, at the end of the day, no. They won’t give $120 million. I don’t think Canelo got $120 million to fight Crawford. No, man. I’m done at 168. They can throw whatever money they want at me.”

It’s a firm statement from a fighter known for his power, discipline, and self-belief. While boxing fans may still dream of a Crawford-Benavidez showdown, the “Mexican Monster” has made it clear — his time at super middleweight is over, and no amount of money will change that.

The victory earned Crawford the undisputed Super Middleweight title, adding a historic third division to his already impressive resume. Following the win, attention quickly turned to potential next fights for the undefeated champion.

Instead of providing concrete plans, Crawford emphasized rest and recovery after one of the biggest bouts of his career. When asked about a potential showdown against David Benavidez, Crawford’s head trainer, Brian “BoMac” McIntyre, made the team’s stance clear on Fight Hub TV.

Crawford’s team confirms immediate fight decisions

Crawford’s head trainer, provided a clear update on their immediate plans: “No, we ain’t doing that fight. No, we’re not going to vacate the belts. We’re just going to sit where we need to sit for a minute, and then get back in the gym, and do our thing,” McIntyre explained.

Benavidez, 30-0 with 24 knockouts, currently holds the WBA regular Light Heavyweight title but has competed mainly at Super Middleweight, capturing titles in 2017 and 2022. Though fans speculated about a matchup with Crawford, Alvarez ultimately took that fight first, leaving Benavidez out of contention for now.

What’s next for Crawford?

Crawford, 42-0 with 31 knockouts, is the first male boxer to become undisputed in three weight divisions. Questions remain about his next move, especially considering his earlier statement that he will not return to Welterweight to face WBA champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis, who is 34-0 with 30 knockouts.

With fights against Benavidez and Ennis effectively off the table, speculation about a rematch with Canelo Alvarez is increasing. Crawford’s team appears focused on maintaining his dominance and maximizing recovery before plotting the next career-defining challenge.

The 28-year-old from Phoenix, Arizona turned professional in 2013 and has since captured world titles at super-middleweight and light-heavyweight. Benavidez held the WBC super-middleweight championship twice between 2017 and 2020, defeating top contenders such as Anthony Dirrell, Caleb Plant, and Demetrius Andrade during his reign at 168 pounds.

‘The Mexican Monster’ moved up to light-heavyweight last August, where he claimed the WBC interim light-heavyweight title by defeating Oleksandr Gvozdyk. He successfully defended that belt against David Morrell in February before being elevated to full WBC world champion after Dmitry Bivol vacated the title in April. Benavidez is set to make the first defense of his crown later this year against Britain’s Anthony Yarde at the ANB Arena in Riyadh on Saturday, November 22.

Who did Benavidez consider truly unbeatable in their prime?

While Benavidez’s own career continues to gain momentum, he singled out former four-division world champion Roy Jones Jr. as the fighter who was untouchable at his peak. Speaking to ESNEWS, Benavidez was clear in his admiration for Jones’ unique abilities.

“To be honest with you, I feel like in his prime Roy Jones was untouched by anybody just because of his speed, athleticism, everything was just different, you know. People say God-given talent, I feel like Roy Jones at his physical prime, he had God-given talent,” Benavidez said.

The legacy of Roy Jones Jr.

At the height of his powers, Roy Jones Jr. was widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the world. During the 1990s, he defeated some of boxing’s elite, including Mike McCallum, James Toney, and Bernard Hopkins.

Jones spent most of his career competing at super-middleweight and light-heavyweight before making a successful move up to heavyweight in 2003, where he captured the WBA world heavyweight title by dethroning John Ruiz.

Recently, Jones has been linked to a highly anticipated showdown with Floyd Mayweather after a heated social media rivalry, fueling speculation about one of boxing’s most intriguing potential matchups.

Thompson underscores Yarde’s strength and dangerous left hooks, which previously hurt Beterbiev during their fight. If Yarde brings the same aggression and power, Benavidez may face his toughest test yet. Meanwhile, Thompson raises concerns about Benavidez’s conditioning and power after an extended break following his February win over David Morrell.

Thompson didn’t mince words when assessing the challenge ahead for Benavidez, telling Pro Boxing Fans, “That’s a tough fight for Benavidez. Anthony Yarde is strong. He’s strong.”

Yarde’s punching power threatens Benavidez’s reign

The 27-3 fighter’s ability to hurt opponents with precise, powerful punches has earned him respect in the division. Thompson points out that if Yarde connects with shots similar to those landed on Beterbiev, Benavidez could be in serious trouble. Yarde’s left hooks, in particular, could prove decisive given how vulnerable Benavidez appeared in previous fights when exposed to body shots.

Thompson explains that Yarde’s style—featuring hand feints, check hooks, and aggressive counterpunching—makes him a formidable opponent who can exploit openings. “It’s a good fight because David is going to be in there with someone that is throwing back at him and throwing back hard,” he said.

Benavidez’s conditioning and power are in question

Benavidez’s five-month hiatus after defeating Morrell led to significant weight gain—approximately 40 pounds mostly around his waistline. Thompson warns that losing this excess weight will be a major challenge and could sap Benavidez’s strength and power.

“He’s already shown no power since moving up to 175, but it’ll be worse after he loses the excess weight,” Thompson said. He emphasized that such a large weight fluctuation is detrimental to an athlete’s power and conditioning, raising doubts about how well Benavidez will perform.

A fight full of risks and rewards

Benavidez’s aggressive combination punching style leaves him open to counters, particularly from body shots, as seen in his bouts against Oleksandr Gvozdyk and Morrell. Thompson believes this vulnerability could be exploited by Yarde’s powerful punches.

“If he hits David like he hit Artur, it’s going to be interesting to see. That’s a fight I’m looking forward to,” Thompson concluded, highlighting the high stakes of this compelling matchup.

For years, Canelo Alvarez has been the face of boxing. Despite the rise of new talent, he has remained one of the sport’s most dominant and recognizable figures.

One of the brightest rising stars is David Benavidez. Many fans view him as the next big name in boxing, and there’s been growing pressure on Canelo to put his legacy on the line and face him.

Benavidez lays down terms for Canelo fight

Few potential matchups in boxing carry the excitement of a Canelo vs. Benavidez clash. With Benavidez currently at his peak and Canelo still holding elite status, the timing seems perfect—at least from the fans’ perspective.

However, Canelo has so far turned down every offer from Benavidez’s camp. Instead, he chose to face Terence Crawford in September, and there are rumors of a multi-fight deal that could keep him busy into 2026.

If those rumors prove true, a bout against Benavidez could be delayed indefinitely—or might never happen at all. Still, Benavidez hasn’t closed the door. He recently shared the final condition he would require for the fight to take place.

In a recent interview, Benavidez made it clear: he will not cut weight for the matchup. If Canelo wants the fight, he’ll have to face Benavidez at his current weight class.

“To be honest with you I don’t think a fight with me and Canelo would ever happen at 168, I don’t wanna go back to 168,” Benavidez said. “I’m good at 175, and I’m world champion here, so if he wants to come up to fight at 175 I’m all good with that but right now I can’t live in this fantasy world.”

David Benavidez, the WBC light heavyweight champion, recently revealed that Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and driving force behind the Riyadh Season events, is interested in matching him with Canelo as the final bout of Álvarez’s current four-fight deal. Though both fighters are on divergent paths for now, Benavidez left the door wide open.

“Turki Alalshikh told me that he’d want me to fight Canelo at the end of the four-fight contract. He said that, but at the end of the day, it comes down to Canelo. Canelo doesn’t want to fight, he doesn’t have to fight nobody. We’re just gonna see. I’m not gonna say that we’re never gonna fight. We just gotta see what happens,” Benavidez told Clockedn’Loaded.

A fight years in the making

The idea of Canelo vs. Benavidez has stirred public demand for years, ever since both fighters shared the super middleweight division. While Benavidez has consistently expressed interest in the matchup, contractual and strategic decisions have kept the bout from materializing. Now, with both fighters aligned with Riyadh’s boxing expansion, that window could open once more.

Currently, Benavidez is reportedly in negotiations to face Callum Smith in October, continuing his campaign at light heavyweight. Canelo, meanwhile, remains the undisputed champion at 168 lbs and is focused on his next opponent — the undefeated Terence Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs).

Canelo’s next test: Crawford at Allegiant Stadium

Canelo’s bout against Crawford will mark one of the biggest events of the year, taking place at the 65,000-seat Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Despite his legacy and championship pedigree, Álvarez will face a dangerous challenge in Crawford, who seeks to jump two weight divisions in pursuit of boxing immortality.

Should both fighters emerge victorious in their respective next steps, a potential clash between Canelo and Benavidez would not only electrify fans but also redefine boxing’s current landscape — especially if it becomes the centerpiece of the final Riyadh Season card.