Sports enthusiasts around the globe received quite a buzz as David Benavidez urges the World Boxing Council (WBC) to arrange a fight with Canelo, the internationally acclaimed boxing sensation. In an interesting turn of events, Benavidez also nudged the WBC to take a leaf from International Boxing Federation’s (IBF) book.
David Benavidez, a two-time World Super Middleweight Champion, has been outspoken about his desire to square up with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, the four-division world champion. Eager to prove his mettle, Benavidez has expressed growing frustration about the perceived lack of initiative by WBC to make his preferred fight a reality.
“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. The fight I want is with Canelo,” comments an adamant Benavidez, before adding, “I urge the WBC to make this happen.” These remarks come at the back of a series of benign match-ups organized by the WBC that had boxing enthusiasts yawning rather than on the edge of their seats.
In a surprising admission, Benavidez stated his admiration for the way the IBF conducts its affairs. “In many ways, I want WBC to take notes from IBF. They’re not afraid to enact their rules and make the fights the public wants to see,” said a visibly passionate Benavidez about the crucial role IBF plays in stirring boxing rivalries. Fans have not failed to notice the significantly high-profile fights organized by the IBF compared to the WBC, which leaves many wondering if the WBC can rise to the occasion.
A potential face-off between the titanic Benavidez and the formidable Canelo would surely light up the boxing arena. Benavidez, known for his ironclad discipline and stark athleticism, provides a match for Canelo’s grandiose style and perfect track record. Not many boxers stand in the same league as these two, but whether or not this clash of titans happens, is unfortunately, not in their gloved hands alone.
The onus is now on the WBC to make a move. On countless occasions, it has proved to be the kingmaker of the boxing world, but fans are clamoring for more. The outburst from Benavidez is a reflection of the increasing demand for high-stake clashes instead of the humdrum that characterizes most boxing events lately. Boxing is as much about the spectacle as it is about the sport, and to keep fans interested, it must offer unpredictable and riveting match-ups.
Conversations about a possible Benavidez vs. Canelo fight, a match-up that boxing fans have been dreaming of, have certainly gained a lot of traction in recent weeks. As Benavidez stated, “Fans know a good fight when they see one, and believe me, Canelo and I would give them a show of a lifetime.” There’s an overwhelming agreement amongst the fans that a clash between Canelo and Benavidez would be a spectacle of raw power, high technique, and fierce competitiveness.
If the WBC acts on Benavidez’s call, they have the chance to grant the wishes of avid boxing fans worldwide. This call to action not only underlines the boxers’ readiness for more significant challenges but also points toward the need for regulatory bodies like WBC to adapt and evolve according to the demands of the sport and its spectators.
In the world of boxing, where power is celebrated and resilience revered, the corporate bodies that govern the sport have a responsibility to keep the excitement alive. As Benavidez’s plea highlights, the hope is that WBC will rise to the occasion, taking cues from its peer, to delight fans by making the dreamed match-up with Canelo a possibility.
