A Twitter clip resurfaced, sparking debate. It features Canelo Alvarez, boxing’s megastar, faced with a pivotal question: Between David Benavidez and Artur Beterbiev, who’s the tougher challenge? His answer? Surprisingly straightforward, yet it’s only part of the conversation.
Benavidez, fresh from dominating Demetrius Andrade, boasts an unblemished record. Meanwhile, Beterbiev, a knockout artist, recently floored Callum Smith, a first in Smith’s career. Canelo’s rationale isn’t just about records and titles. What’s the hidden factor swaying his choice?
What sets Beterbiev apart in Canelo Alvarez’s eyes?
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Benavidez, with a commendable track record of 27-0-0, 23 KOs, has affirmed his position as a formidable force in the super middleweight division. Conversely, Beterbiev, a Russian-Canadian powerhouse, boasts an equally impressive record of 20-0, 20 KOs.
Canelo admits that Beterbiev would be a much tougher fight than David Benavidez#Canelo | #Boxing | #ArturBeterbiev pic.twitter.com/Zk46SZHh9d
— BoxingEnthusiast™ (@BoxingEnth) January 14, 2024
In the much-talked-about Twitter clip, Canelo, before his fight against Bivol which he eventually lost, when asked about who he considers the biggest challenge between Benavidez and Beterbiev, unhesitatingly named the latter. He states, “Oh, Beterbiev. Because he’s a champion. He has something to offer me. He’s strong, he’s in another weight. It’s a lot of things. A lot of things.”
Canelo’s choice, articulated in his own words, underscores a multifaceted approach to assessing opponents. It’s not solely about records or current standing but a combination of factors that, in Canelo’s eyes, makes Beterbiev the more intriguing prospect. While Canelo might be mulling over a fight with Beterbiev or Benavidez, Artur already has his eyes on a bout with Dmitry Bivol.
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Artur Beterbiev’s bold take: Dmitry Bivol ‘Not a great fighter’
In a post-fight press conference, Artur Beterbiev, the reigning WBC, WBO, and IBF light heavyweight champion, spoke candidly about his potential face-off with Dmitry Bivol, the holder of the WBA light heavyweight belt. Beterbiev, eyeing the undisputed championship title, made a striking statement about his rival.
“I think it’s going to happen. We don’t have a choice, we need to do this… I respect him, but he’s not a ‘great fighter’… He hold one belt, can’t be great fighter in our division… I’m not great too but I mean he’s not too… We’re gonna know who is the better fighter in this category,” he declared. This impending bout, brimming with anticipation, promises to be a defining moment in the light heavyweight division.
Also Read: Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol: Ifs, Buts and Canelo Alvarez
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Will Beterbiev’s raw power and confidence prevail, or will Bivol’s tactical prowess prove that he is, indeed, a ‘great fighter’ in their division? What are your thoughts on this highly anticipated encounter?
Watch this story: Terence Crawford, David Benavidez, Dmitry Bivol Rematch, and Other Potential Opponents for Canelo Alvarez
