Upcoming Championship Bout
In the realm of boxing, a highly anticipated matchup is on the horizon as WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez prepares to move up to cruiserweight. This Saturday, Benavidez will face Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez in a championship bout for unified titles in Las Vegas. While this clash promises to be exciting, some fans are secretly lamenting the fact that Benavidez’s ascent into a heavier weight class might indicate he is stepping away from the light heavyweight division, where a showdown with Dmitry Bivol has long been desired.
Benavidez’s Intentions
In a recent interview with Uncrowned’s “The Ariel Helwani Show”, Benavidez dispelled concerns that he was abandoning his light heavyweight aspirations. He revealed his intention to reclaim two titles before returning to light heavyweight, thus building anticipation for a showdown with Bivol.
“My plan wasn’t to just leave the light heavyweight division,” Benavidez stated. “I aim to go up, secure two titles and return to make the Bivol fight even bigger. My ultimate goal is to become the unified champion, and I’m almost there.”
The 29-year-old champion explained that his decision to face Ramirez stemmed from the fact that Bivol was unavailable to fight.
Bivol’s Upcoming Fight
Dmitry Bivol, who hasn’t competed since his victory over Artur Beterbiev in February 2025, is finally slated to defend his WBA and IBF titles against mandatory challenger Michael Eifert on May 30. This marks Bivol’s first fight in Russia in nearly ten years. Subsequently, this timeline could align Bivol and Benavidez for a possible clash later this year, raising questions about why their bout hasn’t been booked sooner.
“I mean no disrespect to him, but he knows who he’s dealing with. Having sparred together, he recognizes that I’m serious about my intentions in that ring. I believe he’s aware of the risks, which is likely why he opted for a tune-up fight first. He’s a formidable opponent, and I respect him greatly, but after this weekend, he’ll have to address me next.”
Shifting Landscape in Boxing
With boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez traditionally dominating the Cinco De Mayo weekend for the past decade, the landscape appears to be shifting. Following Alvarez’s recent loss to Terence Crawford, 2026 could signify a transition in boxing stardom. Benavidez and Ramirez, both prominent figures in the sport and of Mexican descent, have taken center stage for this year’s holiday bout.
“Fighting on Cinco De Mayo is hugely meaningful to me,” said Benavidez, who has dedicated 27 years to the sport, with 13 as a professional. Holding a world title since the age of 20 and now seeking to capture two additional titles against Ramirez, he sees this competition as pivotal in his career. “This is historic as it’s the first occasion a Mexican championship fight is hosted on Cinco De Mayo between two Mexicans in the cruiserweight division. It’s a significant milestone for me, and I feel this is my moment to ascend as the face of boxing.”
