Fans want to see Saul ‘Canelo‘ Alvarez face David Benavidez and the match-up continues to split opinion.
Despite fighting his way to the mandatory spot for the super-middleweight titles, the fight has eluded Benavidez, who claims Canelo is holding the belts hostage.
Speaking on Pro Box TV about potential opponents for Alvarez and what happens to the sport once he hangs up the gloves, former world champion Paulie Malignaggi argued that if Alvarez had faced Benavidez at the first time of asking there would be a new superstar in the sport.
“Benavidez, had he fought Canelo two years ago, would’ve beat him and then you have that star growing for the last two years. Instead you don’t.”
In response, Tim Bradley, also a championship fighter turned analyst, predicted Canelo would win the fight.
“Paulie, you don’t know for a fact he would’ve beat him. You don’t know that for a fact. I think that Canelo beats Benavidez right now, but I don’t think Canelo believes the he can.”
Malignaggi made his feelings clear on the prediction.
“You’re out of your mind, dude.”
These debates will rage on until the two men step through the ropes together, which now seems further away than ever given Benavidez’ decision to move up in weight and pursue titles there.
Alvarez is next out on September 14 to face Edgar Berlanga.
