The boxing world is yet again embroiled in controversy, if recent comments from professional boxing commentator, and former world champion, Timothy Bradley are anything to go by. “Tim Bradley GOES OFF! RIPS Canelo “ – Not one to mince his words, Bradley has set the boxing world abuzz with his scathing comments aimed at Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez for choosing his next opponent, Jaime Munguia, instead of David Benavidez.
Many in the boxing sphere consider Canelo Álvarez to be among the best active boxers, pound for pound. He is a multiple-world champion in four weight classes, having held titles in three divisions simultaneously. Jaime Munguia, a younger and lesser-known fighter, is however viewed by analysts as an easier fight compared to other more seasoned contenders.
In this context, Bradley has vocally criticized Canelo’s choice, stating that the fight against Munguia does not promise the same competitive spirit that a match-up with another boxing kingpin, David Benavidez, would. “RIPS Canelo not fighting David Benavidez,” has been a recurring sentiment in Bradley’s recent talks.
David Benavidez is also an experienced boxer and a former world champion in the super middleweight category. Benavidez seems a more challenging prospect for Canelo in terms of boxing prowess, fighting technique, and credibility. Admittedly, if Canelo were to take the chance with Benavidez, it would potentially raise the bar representing a greater risk but also allowing for greater gains in terms of recognition and prize money.
Bradley’s comments underline the increasing concerns about ‘easy fights’ within the boxing industry, where top-tier fighters sometimes avoid challenging matches in favor of lower-risk bouts. Critics argue that it waters down the competitiveness of the sport and affects the audience’s interest, particularly among ardent followers who are more drawn to challenging and unpredictable matchups.
Understandably, Canelo’s management have defended the choice of opponent arguing that Munguia, despite his relative inexperience compared to Benavidez, is a worthy opponent who will bring tenacity and youthful exuberance into the ring. While it is hard to dismiss this argument, many followers of the sport – like Bradley – are left disappointed by the missed opportunity for a historic match.
Fights of high stakes are what make boxing exciting and Bradley’s recent remarks exemplify the fans’ desire for more such matches. A fight billed as Canelo vs. Benavidez doubtless holds more promise in drawing global attention and producing a potentially thrilling contest – not taking anything away from Munguia, of course.
The boxing industry might need to introspect on the current trend of safe match-making, particularly the practice of choosing opponents who seem to guarantee a win over those who might produce a more evocative match-up. The more exciting the fight, the more engaged the fans, hence benefiting the sport.
There’s more at stake than just a singular fight here. Boxing is a sport revered for its unpredictability, fierce competitiveness, and the spectacle of pitting the very best against each other. Fans, commentators, and critics alike hope for match-ups that uphold these revered aspects of the beautiful and bruising sport of boxing.
