Dmitry Bivol vs David Benavidez is a fight that could happen next.
Bivol became undisputed light heavyweight champion last month with a majority decision win over Artur Beterbiev, gaining revenge in their rematch after Beterbiev had won their first meeting back in October.
A trilogy could be on the cards next, or Bivol may instead face Benavidez, who is the mandatory to the WBC belt after defeating David Morrell earlier this year to extend his unbeaten record.
Fight fans have been torn over who they believe would come out on top between the two light heavyweight stars, with boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya now offering his thoughts.
De La Hoya discussed the potential match-up whilst speaking to Fight Hub TV, starting by praising Bivol if he was indeed willing to accept the challenge of Benavidez next.
“I think that’s a hell of a fight. If he’s willing to be great and fight Benavidez, my gosh. That would solidify Bivol’s Hall of Fame career for sure. He proved to the world he’s the best at 175lbs. That would be a hell of a fight. That would be a hell of a route to take.”
Despite the plaudits, De La Hoya then conceded that he would favour Benavidez in the fight.
“That’s a tough one. I would go with Benavidez because he’s more active and throws more punches and has better footwork than Beterbiev. He’s smarter up there and knows how to think and how to adjust. I would favour Benavidez.”
Bivol and Benavidez have previously sparred together in the past, with an infamous story recently coming to light where Benavidez allegedly dropped the undisputed champion with a jab.
