WBC Demands Dmitry Bivol Vs. David Benavidez Next
The WBC has come out and said that Dmitry Bivol must face David Benavidez in his next fight.
Benavidez became the Undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion after defeating Artur Beterbiev in their rematch via a majority decision. That set up the narrative for a third fight to decide the best light heavyweight of this era. The Saudis have already said that is the aim moving forward. The two boxers are also intent on making it happen. That poses a problem for Benavidez, who is the WBC and WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Champion. That means he is mandatory for Bivol.
The Mexican Monster was in attendance to watch Bivol beat Beterbiev, raising suggestions that he would get the fight next. Benavidez also moved up to 175 pounds with a view to becoming undisputed. He did so after failing to get the undisputed Canelo Alvarez fight at super middleweight. This was despite being the WBC Interim Super Middleweight Champion for over two years.
The WBC did not help his cause, as they did not strip Canelo, nor did they enforce the mandatory. That leaves serious question marks for Bivol and Benavidez moving forward. Benavidez has recalled sparring Bivol, with suggestions that he had also stopped him. Bivol has also given his praise of Benavidez, saying that is a fight he is open to doing in the future. That means Benavidez has a decision to make.
Benavidez On Bivol
“I know Bivol really well. I sparred with him. He’s a great fighter, and we had a lot of great sparring sessions. So, I definitely would like to fight Bivol. I’m pretty confident [I’ll fight the winner]. To be honest, the only thing that I’m thinking about is that if Bivol wins, there would have to be a rubber match. Who am I to say that they can’t fight another fight? If [Bivol won], I wouldn’t fight until they get that done with and I would move into the fight after they have a trilogy.
“I think we’re going to go over there on February 22nd, and we’ll probably figure everything out [for what’s next for me]. It’s probably too much of a long time [of a break for me if Bivol wins]. We have a lot of big things coming up. I think I proved to everyone what level I’m on [in the Morrell fight] and how much heart I have. I’ll bet the house, me against anybody. I’m looking forward to continuing to make history,” Benavidez said
He may be presented with an opportunity for a step-aside deal, allowing the third fight to go ahead. Alternatively, Bivol may have to decide whether he wants to go through with a mandatory defense before facing Beterbiev. Alternatively, he could relinquish the belt and face Beterbiev in the trilogy. Things may also be influenced by Canelo Alvarez. Canelo is keen on securing the biggest fights, with reports that he could target Bivol in the rematch. Boxing fans had plenty to say over the WBCs move.
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