Lionell Thompson, a super middleweight boxer, has made a bold prediction regarding the future of newly crowned WBC interim light heavyweight champion, David Benavidez. Thompson firmly believes that Benavidez stands no chance against the formidable IBF/WBC/WBO light heavyweight champion, Artur Beterbiev. According to Thompson, Benavidez’s lack of power and conditioning, as evident in his recent debut against Oleksandr Gvozdyk, will be his downfall when faced with fighters like Beterbiev and WBA 175-lb champion Dmitry Bivol.
Despite Benavidez’s dominance in the super middleweight division, where he has an impressive record of 29-0 with 24 knockouts, his transition to light heavyweight has raised concerns. Many fans and experts alike have noted Benavidez’s lack of punching power and inadequate conditioning in his debut at 175. Thompson points out that Benavidez seemed vulnerable against Gvozdyk and was fortunate not to face more powerful shots from the former WBC champion.
Thompson’s prediction for Benavidez’s future is quite grim. He firmly believes that a showdown with Beterbiev would result in a crushing defeat for the young boxer. Despite the potential matchup with Bivol, Thompson remains skeptical about Benavidez’s chances at securing a world title in the light heavyweight division.
The prospect of Benavidez returning to the super middleweight division is also a topic of discussion. Thompson argues that Benavidez should stay at 175 and face the challenges in that weight class. He questions the logic of Benavidez potentially dropping back down to 168 to compete against smaller opponents, emphasizing the importance of weight classes for fair competition.
Thompson’s critical assessment of David Benavidez’s future prospects in the light heavyweight division paints a challenging picture for the young boxer. The road ahead seems tough, with formidable opponents like Beterbiev and Bivol standing in the way of Benavidez’s quest for a world title. Only time will tell if Benavidez can rise to the occasion and prove his doubters wrong.