Mexican has been accused of avoiding tougher opponents

Jose Benavídez Sr., the father and trainer of David Benavídez, believes his son can knock out Saul ‘Canelo’ Álvarez if they fight.

He feels Alvarez, despite his past success, is declining in boxing, as has been shown by the perception that he has been choosing easier opponents of late.

In a recent interview with Upper Box, Benavidez Sr. acknowledged Canelo’s performance against Jaime Munguia but insisted Alvarez isn’t the same fighter he once was. He predicts that David Benavídez could be the first to knock Alvarez down.

“My respects to Canelo, but I think David will stop him,” Benavidez Sr. explained.

“David Benavídez is too strong for Canelo Alvarez. Honestly, my respects to Canelo, he’s achieved a lot in boxing, but I believe it’s David’s era now.

“He’s young, strong, and very hungry.”

Benavídez Sr. argues that Canelo Alvarez, despite looking good against Munguia, lacks the power he once had. He believes Álvarez has worn out from many fights and extensive training.

Calls for a Benavidez/Alvarez fight continue

For three years, David Benavídez has been the mandatory challenger, seeking a fight with Álvarez. Despite interest from fans and boxing experts, Álvarez hasn’t shown interest, and the WBC hasn’t mandated the bout.

Negotiations failed again, with Álvarez stating he would only fight Benavídez for a $200 million purse. Benavídez then sought assistance from Turki Alalshikh to arrange the fight.

Turki Alalshikh prefers Álvarez to face Terence Crawford later in the year or in early 2025. He has other plans for Benavídez, who may fight the winner of the undisputed 175-pound championship bout between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev.

Currently, Álvarez is on a short break, deciding on his next opponent for September. He risks losing his IBF title if he doesn’t fight official challenger William Scull. Meanwhile, Benavídez will move up to 175 pounds to contest the WBC interim title against Oleksandr Gvozdyk on June 15.