In recent discussions, Ryan Garcia shared his thoughts on the speculation that Canelo Alvarez is intentionally avoiding facing the unbeaten David Benavidez in the ring. Garcia hinted at the idea that Canelo, after a tough fight with Dmitry Bivol in 2022, may have lost his appetite for risk-taking. The notion is that the defeat against Bivol has left a lasting impact on Canelo, causing him to shy away from potential challenges that could lead to similar outcomes. Fans argue that the size, youth, and work rate of Benavidez have deterred Canelo from engaging in a match with him.
Speaking cautiously, Ryan Garcia refrained from directly accusing Canelo of evading Benavidez, but he did express his willingness to have fought Benavidez himself if placed in Canelo’s position. Garcia’s track record of taking on formidable opponents like Gervonta Davis and his upcoming bout with Devin Haney showcases his willingness to embrace risks in his career. In contrast, Canelo’s perceived reluctance to face Benavidez is puzzling to Garcia, who values active competition over preserving a legacy by sidestepping challenges.
The decision to avoid a matchup with Benavidez has not been well-received by boxing enthusiasts, with many viewing it as a stain on Canelo’s reputation. The act of avoiding a potential competitor carries a heavier negative connotation than facing them head-on and potentially experiencing defeat. The boxing community is known for disapproving acts of perceived cowardice, and Canelo’s avoidance of Benavidez has led to criticisms labeling him as such. While Canelo maintains a loyal fan base, his popularity has taken a hit due to this perceived lack of courage.
The debate regarding whether Canelo Alvarez is avoiding David Benavidez continues to fuel discussions within the boxing world. While Ryan Garcia hints at the possibility of evasion on Canelo’s part, the impact on Canelo’s reputation is evident. Whether Canelo chooses to address these speculations or not, the conversation surrounding his reluctance to face certain opponents will persist in the boxing community.