David Benavidez says Artur Beterbiev is chasing a fight between the pair
The unified WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion, who meets Michal Cieslak in December, has set out a three-fight plan that also includes Jai Opetaia and a possible move up to heavyweight.
Post by @ringmagazine on X
David Benavidez says Artur Beterbiev's team has approached his camp about a fight. Beterbiev has since posted a training clip on Instagram with a caption hinting at the bout, and is hoping he has not scared Benavidez off.
Beterbiev is one of three fights Benavidez has mapped out if he comes through his December meeting with Michal Cieslak unscathed. The other two are a potential undisputed cruiserweight showdown with Jai Opetaia and a possible step up to heavyweight.
Benavidez held the WBC light-heavyweight title before moving up 25lb, from 175lb to 200lb, earlier this year to challenge Gilberto Ramirez for the WBA and WBO cruiserweight belts. He won both by knockout.
Benavidez told The Ring: “Beterbiev has definitely reached out to our team.”“He’s actively been trying to make that fight.” He added: “He’s about 45 years old, and the fact he’s calling me out, I have great respect for him.” Beterbiev, the former undisputed light-heavyweight champion, is 41 and has won by knockout in 90 per cent of his 22 fights. He is also being touted for a third fight with Dmitry Bivol at light-heavyweight, and a win there could set up a meeting with Benavidez in mid-to-late 2027.
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