David Benavidez has hinted at a potential December showdown with WBA 'regular' light heavyweight champion David Morrell, sparking excitement in the boxing world. Benavidez initially teased the news on social media, stating he was "cooking up something big," and later confirmed that a clash with the unbeaten Morrell could be on the horizon.
Capturing the WBA secondary belt from Morrell would significantly bolster Benavidez's credibility as a serious contender for the winner of the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol unification bout. However, should Morrell win, it could derail Benavidez's career plans, potentially robbing him of the WBC mandatory position for Beterbiev and the massive payday he’s been eyeing. A loss to Morrell could be a decision Benavidez would regret for the rest of his life.
Morrell, who looked tentative in his recent wide-decision win over Radivoje Kalajdzic in August, remains a formidable opponent. Despite hurting Kalajdzic multiple times, Morrell hesitated to unleash sustained combinations, leaving many wondering if he'll adjust for a potential fight with Benavidez. If Morrell sharpens his offense, Benavidez could face serious trouble in what would be a dangerous match-up.
Watch Morrell vs. Kalajdzic highlights: Watch
Benavidez’s power at 168 has been less evident at 175, raising questions about his ability to dominate in the light heavyweight division. While Benavidez has floated dreams of fighting the Beterbiev-Bivol winner and even suggested defending unified titles against Canelo Alvarez at a catchweight, these lofty aspirations could be dashed if Morrell defeats him in December.
Should this bout materialize, it remains unclear if Benavidez's WBC mandatory position will be on the line. If Morrell manages to win, he could take over that coveted spot and potentially face the Beterbiev-Bivol winner, shaking up Benavidez’s plans and altering the landscape of the light heavyweight division.
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