Beterbiev recently said he agreed to fight Benavidez after David’s win over Anthony Yarde, only for Benavidez’s side to lose interest and move toward Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez instead. Benavidez Sr. told The Ring that this was not true, saying they had already approached Beterbiev’s team before the Yarde fight and were told there was no interest.
“We have no problem fighting Beterbiev next,” Benavidez Sr. said. “There’s no need for trash talk. Let’s make the fight happen. We respect Beterbiev. He’s a great fighter but our preference is Bivol.”
Benavidez’s preferred route is clear. Dmitry Bivol holds The Ring, IBF, WBA and WBO light heavyweight titles, while Benavidez owns the WBC belt. A fight between them would give Benavidez the chance to become undisputed at 175lbs.
Beterbiev is still chasing a third fight with Bivol after splitting their first two meetings, but he says he is willing to face Benavidez if that trilogy does not happen. Benavidez Sr. says the door is open - but for now, Bivol remains the fight they want most.
Image Credit: PBC