David Benavidez furthered his case for a shot at Saul ‘Canelo’ Álvarez and his undisputed super-middleweight world title with a dominant win over Demetrius Andrade this weekend.
‘The Mexican Monster’ snatched Andrade’s undefeated record in Las Vegas by moving through the gears and dishing out relentless punishment like only he can.
Andrade fought valiantly, but was retired on his stool after the sixth. With the win, Benavidez keeps his WBC Interim World Title and mandatory spot for Canelo. He was quick to call out his countryman in the aftermath.
“Just a reminder to let everybody know who the f**k the real champion at 168 is. They want to see me versus Canelo, and that’s what we want too … Who wants to see David Benavidez versus Canelo? That’s what you guys wanna see? Let’s get it.”
Speaking to Fight Hub TV, two-weight world champion Teofimo Lopez praised Benavidez and said that, in their current forms, he beats Canelo.
“He did great. Awesome job man. I think he definitely showed that he is that guy in the division … He’s so smart. The Canelo situation, it’s a great match-up, great fight.
“[This version of him] beats Canelo. I like Canelo, man. He’s a well-rounded fighter, however if Canelo is not back to being light on his fight then Benavidez can get this. Not saying it’ll be easy, cause Canelo is smart, he’ll break his arms … If both can understand and master that then we win at the end, the fans.”
Canelo is expected to fight in both May and September next year, with the latter more likely to be Benavidez should the WBC allow him to pause the mandatory defence.