Shawn Porter, a respected web host, has boldly claimed that the highly anticipated bout between Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez will never come to fruition. Porter argues that Benavidez, with his impressive record of 29-0 and 24 knockouts, poses a significant threat to Canelo’s superstar status. The idea of Benavidez being a “nightmare” opponent for Canelo is a narrative that has captured the attention of boxing fans around the world.
If Porter’s prediction holds true, Benavidez’s decision to move back down to the super middleweight division may be in vain. Despite a successful debut at 175, where he defeated former WBC light heavyweight champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk, Benavidez expressed his desire to face Canelo in the 168-pound division. However, Porter believes that Canelo will not grant Benavidez the lucrative payday he seeks, rendering his return to 168 pointless. The sanctioning bodies’ inability to force Canelo into a fight with Benavidez further complicates the situation for the young fighter.
Porter suggests that Canelo Alvarez may opt for a more financially rewarding matchup against Terence Crawford, should he emerge victorious against WBA light middleweight champion Israil Madrimov. The allure of a lucrative and less risky fight against Crawford, who is not a natural light heavyweight like Benavidez, could be a deciding factor for Canelo. Porter notes that Canelo’s reluctance to face Benavidez is a strategic move to preserve his legacy rather than a sign of fear.
Porter’s analogy of Canelo nearing the end of his fighting career as a driver approaching an exit on the highway further emphasizes the notion that Canelo will steer clear of a showdown with Benavidez. Despite Porter’s portrayal of Benavidez as a formidable opponent, the boxer’s perceived unwillingness to face top-tier competition, as evidenced by his refusal to fight David Morrell, weakens his case for a fight against Canelo. Porter’s assertion that Benavidez represents an undesirable exit on Canelo’s career path underlines the prevailing narrative that Canelo has little to gain from such a matchup.
The speculation surrounding a potential clash between Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez raises intriguing questions about the dynamics of the boxing world. While Benavidez’s undefeated record and imposing stature make him a formidable opponent, the financial considerations and strategic implications of a fight with Canelo may ultimately prevent the matchup from materializing. Shawn Porter’s critical analysis sheds light on the complexities of the boxing landscape and the intricate decision-making processes that govern the sport.