David Benavidez has been consistently calling out undisputed super-middleweight champion Saul ‘Canelo‘ Alvarez and putting in performances to show he deserves the fight.
The two-time 168 champion is still undefeated but currently without any titles given Canelo has been holding on to all four in the division since late 2021.
Despite being WBC number one contender and Interim Champ, Benavidez has had no luck securing Canelo’s interest, with the elite Mexican demanding a $200 million payday for the defence.
Speaking to FightHype following Benavidez’s last performance against the previously undefeated Demetrius Andrade, Crawford said ‘El Monsturo’ was ready to face Canelo and called for it to happen even despite his own desires. He branded the fight a pick ’em.
“He’s coming behind his jab, he’s throwing straight punches, going to the body and then up and down. He’s just got to tighten up a little bit on his defence, but other than that, he good. He ready for Canelo.”
“I still got it a 50/50. Benavidez is good, but Canelo is great. We’ve just got to see the fight, man. We all want to see the fight. You’ve got two strong fighters going head-to-head.”
Crawford was then asked if his super-middleweight dreams were restricted only to Canelo or if he would consider facing Benavidez.
“Yeah, Canelo the only one.”
Crawford makes his move to super-welterweight on August 3 against Champion Israil Madrimov. Benavidez – after unsuccessfully chasing the Canelo fight – makes his light-heavyweight debut on June 15. Canelo is yet to announce his next opponent but is expected to return around September.
