Antonio Tarver vs David Benavidez
Head-to-head comparison — tale of the tape, career analysis, stylistic breakdown, and prediction factors

Antonio Tarver
"The Magic Man"
39-6-1
David Benavidez
"El Bandera Roja / ("The Red Flag")"
31-0-0Physical Comparison
Antonio Tarver stands 188cm tall compared to David Benavidez's 185cm — a 3cm height advantage that could allow Tarver to control range and use the jab effectively.
Record & Experience
Antonio Tarver brings a record of 39-6-1 across 46 professional bouts (85% win rate).David Benavidez enters with 31-0-0 from 31 fights (100% win rate).
Antonio Tarver has the experience edge with 46 bouts compared to 31 — that's 15 more fights under the bright lights, which can matter in championship rounds when fatigue sets in and composure is tested.
In terms of finishing power, David Benavidez carries the heavier hands with a 81% stoppage rate vs 0% for Antonio Tarver. Benavidez is the more dangerous finisher of the two.
David Benavidez is unbeaten at 31-0 — the pressure of defending a perfect record adds an extra dimension to this matchup.
Age & Career Stage
David Benavidez is the younger fighter at 29 compared to Antonio Tarver's 57 — a 28-year age gap. The younger fighter may have the edge in physical attributes, while Tarver relies on veteran savvy and accumulated skill.
Key Factors
Tarver's Path to Victory
- • Use height and reach to control distance
- • Lean on greater experience (46 bouts)
- • Establish rhythm early and dictate the pace
Benavidez's Path to Victory
- • Look for the stoppage (81% KO rate)
- • Higher win percentage (100% vs 85%)
- • Apply pressure and force the fight on their terms
Antonio Tarver vs David Benavidez — FAQ
- What are Antonio Tarver's and David Benavidez's records?
- Antonio Tarver is 39-6-1 (0 KOs). David Benavidez is 31-0-0 (25 KOs).
- Who is taller — Antonio Tarver or David Benavidez?
- Antonio Tarver is taller at 188cm vs 185cm — a 3cm advantage.
- Who has the higher knockout rate?
- David Benavidez has the higher KO rate at 81% compared to Antonio Tarver's 0%.