Saul ‘Canelo‘ Alvarez is quite clear on what it will take for him to step through the ropes with David Benavidez.
The rivalry is fuelled by Benavidez’ relentless pursuit of a fight with the Mexican superstar. As a young, undefeated two-time super-middleweight champion, he believes – along with many fans – that he is the biggest threat to Canelo’s dominance in the division.
Canelo, however, has dismissed the challenge. He believes Benavidez doesn’t add to his legacy and that he will be at a disadvantage because of how much the younger man rehydrates. Speaking to the media earlier this year, Alvarez said that the only way it happens is for $150 – $200 million.
“He brings nothing to the table for me. He brings just 25 pounds more on the night. That’s it. It’s not him because he has nothing to offer me, anything. I’m the one. But if one promoter who I work with comes and offers me $150 million to $200 million, I’ll fight tomorrow. That’s the only reason I would fight with him because the only thing he brings to the table is 25 pounds.”
More recently, Canelo has repeated his stance that he will take the fight for the right money, but has reiterated that he believes Benavidez belongs at light-heavy and not super-middleweight. He says that he does not need to prove anything to anybody.
The 27-year-old’s plans are consistent with that. He will face David Morrell Jr in an intriguing clash at 175 in February before looking to enact his status as WBC Interim Champion to fight for the full title, currently held, along with the other three major belts, by undisputed Artur Beterbiev. Beterbiev is expected to rematch Dmitry Bivol in early 2025.
As for Canelo, fans are still in the dark as to who he will target next.
