Canelo Alvarez’s much-anticipated showdown with David Benavidez won’t materialize anytime soon, despite Benavidez’s persistent efforts. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman disclosed that Benavidez’s upcoming bout is scheduled against Alexandr Gvozdyk on June 15th.
With news emerging on Monday of Alvarez parting ways with PBC with two fights left on his contract, any hopes for a clash with Benavidez this year, let alone for the undisputed super middleweight championship, seem dashed.
Speaking to ESPN, Benavidez conveyed his sentiments, emphasizing that his career proceeds even without a face-off against Canelo. “His actions speak volumes,” Benavidez asserted. “This was the most crucial fight… so his departure from PBC, even though this fight between him and me was on the table… it just speaks volumes.
I won’t wait around for Canelo. My career doesn’t hinge on him.”
Benavidez didn’t mince words, attributing the absence of their bout solely to Alvarez’s reluctance. “It’s frustrating, but ultimately, it tarnishes my reputation…
The truth is, this fight won’t happen because Canelo doesn’t want it,” he stated. Benavidez clarified that his desire to face Saul Alvarez isn’t about financial gain but rather about securing titles and showcasing skill in the ring.
The “Mexican Monster” stressed that his pursuit of a bout with Alvarez isn’t driven by monetary interests but by his aspiration for championship victories. He even expressed willingness to accept $5 million without any PPV perks, underlining his priority for the fight to materialize. “The money is there, the fans’ excitement is there,” he affirmed.
