Former undisputed heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis has predicted the outcome of an intriguing light-heavyweight battle between Dmitry Bivol and David Benavidez.
Russian superstar Bivol achieved his career-long dream of becoming the undisputed light-heavyweight champion back in February when he defeated countryman Artur Beterbiev by majority decision in their thrilling rematch in Riyadh.
As for Benavidez, the 28-year-old from Phoenix began his campaign at 175lbs in August 2024 following a successful period at super-middleweight. ‘The Mexican Monster’ was elevated to full WBC world champion earlier this year after Bivol opted to vacate the belt to pursue a trilogy clash with Beterbiev.
With rumours circulating about a potential match-up between the two light heavyweight stars being targeted for 2026, legendary heavyweight Lewis has spoken out and predicted what he believes will happen when they inevitably clash.
In a recent interview with Carl Froch, Lewis made no mistake in backing Benavidez to get the job done against Bivol as he brandishes the unbeaten American star as a ‘classy operator’.
“Benavidez and Bivol? I’m still picking Benavidez on that one. Yes he is [a classy operator].”
Benavidez is set to make the maiden defence of his WBC light-heavyweight title against Britain’s Anthony Yarde at the ANB Arena in Riyadh on Saturday November 22, his first ring appearance since he outpointed David Morrell back in February.
Should he be victorious against Yarde later this month, ‘The Mexican Monster’ will be looking at pushing towards a potential clash with Bivol, who currently holds the unified WBA, WBO and IBF world titles at 175lbs.
