Future Four: Benavidez, Ennis, Haney and Stevenson

By Norm frauenheim-

There are a couple of finishers, both forged by a relentless dynamic hard to counter, almost impossible to elude.

Then, there are a couple of craftsmen, both forged in the patient execution of fundamental skill that breaks down, busts up challengers, leaving them confused instead of confident.

They’re fun to watch. They’re also Generation Next, four fighters, 25 and younger, who figure to climb to the top of the boxing marquee, if not the pound-for-pound debate, within the next couple of years.

The finishers: 25-year-old super-middleweight David Benavidez and 24-year-old welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis.

The craftsmen: 24-year-old junior-lightweight Shakur Stevenson and 23-year-old lightweight Devin Haney.

The Future Four have all made powerful statements this spring on who they are and how they might impact the business.

Last Saturday, Haney (28-0, 15 KOs) unified the lightweight title with a jab, a traditional weapon and timely as ever. The defining punch summed up poise and patience that belie his years. George Kambosos Jr. never had a chance in losing a unanimous decision in Melbourne, Australia, his home country, mate.

On May 14, Ennis (29-0, 27 KOs/1 NC) continued to overwhelm anybody in his way. He scored his 19^th stoppage in his last 20 fights. He blew away a somebody, somebody named Custio Clayton, in a second-round knockout. There are a lot of somebodies on Ennis’ resume, which also includes a stoppage of Sergey Lipinets, a former world champion who had never been stopped. Still, Ennis’ skill and one-punch power are impossible to ignore, even if your name is Terence Crawford or Errol Spence Jr. According to reports, a deal for a long-awaited Crawford-Spence fight is close. If the fight in fact happens, it’s fair to say that Ennis will be at least mentioned as one who deserves a shot at the winner. That’s how fast he’s emerging.

A week later on May 21, Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs) looked a like a force of nature in overwhelming David Lemieux in a three-round beat-down in front of roaring crowd in Glendale AZ, about seven miles from the Phoenix streets where Benavidez grew up. The victory was no surprise. Lemieux, brave and faded, was overmatched before opening bell. The stunner, however, was in the way Benavidez won. It was almost scary. It was violent. He was all momentum, a tsunami that looks as if it is just beginning.

In April, there was Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs), who throughout 12 rounds, left Oscar Valdez Jr. with no chance. For the last decade, Valdez was the one fighter who always found a way. Not this time. Like Benavidez, Stevenson figured to win. But nobody figured he would suffocate a fighter known for his resilience.

“Valdez is a hard out,’’ promoter Bob Arum said in a perfect summation.

Haney, Ennis, Benavidez, and Stevenson are following lightweight Tank Davis and bantamweight Japanese bantamweight Naoya Inoue into the elite. Both are older. Both, too, are entering their primes. Davis is 27, Inoue 29

Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) continues to flash his dramatic edge, finishing power, with a sixth-round knockout of Rolando Romero on May 28 in Brooklyn. It was a big crowd. A wild one, too, in a further testament to Davis’ growing box-office power.

Ryan Garcia, who spends more time on social media than he does in the ring, has been calling out Davis. Somebody needs to text Garcia (22-0, 18 KOs) an old line: Be careful what you wish for.

Then, there’s Inoue (23-0, 20 KOs). He might be the only fighter who creates a buzz at sunrise. Sunrise, at least, was when anybody in the United States saw him blow away accomplished Nonito Donaire in a second-round stoppage in Japan. It was more than just a rematch for the bantamweight title. It was re-affirmation of Inoue’s pound credentials. There’s a good argument that he should be No. 1, ahead of Crawford.

Inoue was mentioned as possible opponent for Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez in mid 2015 when Gonzalez, a longtime flyweight champion, had moved up to junior-bantamweight. He also moved up to be the lightest pound-for-pound No. 1 ever. But it was a move up the scale, to junior-bantam, that got him knocked off the pound-for-pound perch. He lost successive fights to Thai Wisaksil Wangek in 2017.

Inoue, a champion at junior-flyweight, skipped a weight class (fly) and went straight to junior bantam and then bantam. He’s still unbeaten.

Davis and Inoue are the first to re-energize the pound-for-pound debate in a shakeup set in motion by Dmitry Bivol’s upset of Canelo Alvarez May 7.

The debate will continue. Maybe, Teofimo Lopez resurrects himself and his career in his first fight since his messy loss to Kambosos in November. Lopez has time on his side. He’s 24. He moves up, from lightweight to junior-welterweight, in a reported deal for an August 13 with Mexican Pedro Campa.

Maybe, there will be a Future Five.

For now, however, the future rests in the eight dangerous hands of four – Benavidez, Ennis, Haney and Stevenson.

Fantasy Meets Reality: Talk about Benavidez-Canelo isn’t going anywhere

By Norm Frauenheim –

It’s a fantasy.

That, at least, is how David Benavidez’ promoter described talk about any chance at a fight with Canelo Alvarez in the wake of Benavidez’ very real beatdown of David Lemieux.

“Quit fantasizing,’’ Sampson Lewkowicz told media about an hour after a violent third-round stoppage of Lemieux at a National Hockey League arena about seven miles from where Benavidez grew up in Phoenix. “There’s no way that Canelo is going to fight the People’s Champ.’’

There no quit in fantasy, however, especially after a dominant exhibition from 25-year-old super-middleweight that got a roaring crowd and Showtime audience fantasizing about just how good Benavidez might be a year, or two, from now.

Put it this way: A little bit of fantasy is a pretty good place to start thinking about negotiations. It’s also a subtle step away from the frustration that has dogged Benavidez throughout his noisy pursuit of a rich date with Canelo.

Benavidez’ victory over Lemieux a week ago at Gila River Arena in Glendale AZ was no surprise. The brave Lemieux, a former middleweight champion, was overmatched in every way. But Benavidez exceeded expectations. The bout was meant to showcase his potential. He did that and more. The clever Lewkowicz called him a People’s Champ. The Lemieux performance was full of more reasons to think he will be one. He’s getting social-media clicks. He’s doing numbers at the box office.

That’s more than fantasy. It’s momentum, which is something Canelo is trying to regain.

This week, Canelo decided to fight Gennadiy Golovkin for a third time instead of an immediate rematch of his stunning decision loss to light-heavyweight Dmitry Bivol.

GGG was a business move, not surprising in the wake of disappointing reports about the DAZN numbers for the pay-per-view telecast of Canelo-Bivol on May 7. The PPV reports varied, but they fell nearly 300,000 short of the PPV sales — reported to be about 800,000 — for Canelo’s victory over Caleb Plant. Plant an American, was – still is — better known than the skilled Bivol, a mostly-unknown Russian.

GGG is 40. His skillset might have eroded, but his name recognition has not. People still know him for his first two fights with Canelo, both debatable. The first was a draw. The second was a majority decision, won by Canelo.

Now, questions follow Canelo as he goes into a decisive third fight with GGG. Was the Bivol loss just a bad night? Was the move from 168 pounds to 175 too much? Is he beginning to show signs of decline? They’ll all be there in September.

So, too, will Benavidez.

For now, Benavidez is first in line for Canelo. With the World Boxing Council’s so-called interim title, Benavidez is supposed to get a mandatory shot at Canelo, if and when the WBC ever orders the fight.

For the rest of this year, however, Benavidez-Canelo is fantasy. Lewkowicz is talking about Plant, Jarmall Charlo or David Morell, an emerging Cuban. perhaps in November. Whoever it is, it’s a fight that could further the fantasy. If Benavidez’ ascendancy continues, fans won’t quit thinking about it. More important, they won’t quit talking about it.

They’ll promote it in ways that Lewkowicz can’t. Could the fantasy become reality next year, say May 6 2023? It depends on Canelo’s performance against GGG. It depends on how Benavidez looks in November.

It also depends on whether Canelo in fact fights Bivol for a second time. He said this week he will. Maybe, a third GGG bout is a steppingstone toward regaining momentum and his pound-for-pound status.

But Benavidez believes that Canelo can’t ever beat Bivol. He says Canelo would lose a rematch. Then what?

“Then, he’s got nowhere to go,’’ Benavidez said before he bulldozed Lemieux. “He’ll have to come back down to 168.

That means me.’’

Fantasy meets reality

David Morrell Responds to David Benavidez“ After my fight I’m going to make you my BITCH”

HOUSTON, TX (May 25, 2022) – Undefeated super middleweight, David Morrell Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), responds to David Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs) and his comments after his fight with David Lemieux this past Saturday on Showtime. Benavidez referenced Morrell Jr., Caleb Plant and Jermall Charlo as bitches, and that he would knock everyone out.

“I ain’t no bitch and you’re going to find out,” stated David Morrell Jr., who holds the WBA regular title. “I’m from Cuba and I’m not afraid to fight you. I’ve beaten bigger and better fighters than you. So right after this fight I got coming up, get your ass ready.”

David Benavidez and David Morrell Jr. are on a head on collision to bring the fans a war. Both fighters have now addressed interest in making this fight. David Morrell Jr. is scheduled to put his WBA title on the line in a 12-round bout against Kalvin Henderson (15-1-1, 11 KOs), live on Showtime June 4th.

“I have business to handle of June 4th against Henderson, a fight I’m taking very seriously,” concluded Morrell. “After that, I’m on the hunt for Benavidez’ head. “There is no bitch in me, after my fight, I’m gonna make you my bitch” No need to talk no more I’m gonna show you better than I can tell you…see you soon BITCH.”

David Benavidez blows out Lemieux

GLENDALE, Ariz. —David Benavidez was looking for a challenge. He didn’t get one. David Lemieux never had a chance.

Benavidez continued to show why he ranks as perhaps the most avoided fighter in boxing since Antonio Margarito.

He’s feared, more feared now than he was before he walked through a roaring crowd at Gila River Arena, up the steps and through the ropes. Fear came in combos, all more reasons to avoid the unbeaten super-middleweight.

The deadly delivery in a Showtime blowout Saturday night included early body punches. Then, there was a lethal uppercut, the first of what was an incoming storm.

One after another, he left Lemieux bloodied, dazed and defenseless. At the end of the first, Lemieux slumped along the ropes. In the second, Benavidez knocked the Canadian through the ropes with a blinding succession of punches.

Early in the third, it was over. At 1:31 of the round, it was stopped. Lemieux was led to his corner and placed on his stool, looking like an accident victim. He showed courage. But it was futile, if not foolish.

Above all, it was another reason to be wary of the Phoenix fighter, especially if you’re Caleb Plant or Jermall Charlo. Nobody knows what Canelo Alvarez plans to do next. He plans to choose between a rematch with Dmitry Bivol or a third fight with Gennadiy Golovkin in September.

“I’m waiting for them to sign the contract,’’ Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs) said in the immediate aftermath of the carnage. “Them bitches know what’s up.”

A beating is up, if Saturday night is a reliable guide. Lemieux (43-5, 36 KOs), a former middleweight champion, was overmatched in every way. He was just too small. Yet, his evident courage and world-class experience indicated he might have a chance.

But he didn’t, a warning sign to all the super-middleweight champions and contenders.

“I think we can make some of those fights — Plant or Charlo or David Morrell — happen, maybe by the end of the year,’’ Benavidez said during the post-fight news conference.

With the victory, Benavidez won the World Boxing Council’s so-called interim title. It could be significant, but that depends on Canelo. It’s supposed to lead to a mandatory shot at the WBC’s real title, which Canelo still holds.

But a mandatory shot at Canelo is an illusion, according to Benavidez promoter Sampson Lewkowicz.

“Forget Canelo,” Lewkowicz said. “Plant, Morrell and Charlo are the ones we’re talking about. Canelo isn’t going to fight Benavidez.

“He’s never going to fight the world’s real super-middleweight champion.’’

Yoelvis Gomez, Dominates, wins one-sided Decision

Yoelvis Gomez fled Havana and escaped to Guatemala on a raft. It was a perilous journey. Gomez had only his will, wits and fast hands.The wit and will are still there.

So, too are those fast hands.

Jorge Cota was no match for the hands, which proved to be a deadly mix of speed, power and precision in a one-sided junior-middleweight fight, the last bout before the Benavidez-Lemieux main event Saturday night in Glendale, Ariz.

Gomez, who won a unanimous decision — scorecard shutout over 10 rounds, did everything and anything he wanted except stop Cota. It was a bout that could have been stopped at any time. The third round was one of those times. A huge right hand from Gomez drove Coto into the ropes. The Mexican rebounded, almost like an object in a slingshot. Gomez caught him and threw the Mexican onto the canvas. The takedown was ruled a slip. It should have ended there.

But the rout went on. And on. Gomez didn’t miss much. He was dropping punches from all angles onto Cota (30-6, 27 KOs). He even landed one that caught veteran referee Wes Melton. It was a glancing blow at the end of the wild third. It missed Melton’s jaw and glanced off the top of his chest, just below his black bow tie. as he was trying to separate the fighters and send them to their corners. It was harmless.
Nonetheless, it was a moment that summed up how busy and aggressive Gomez is.

Don’t get in his way.

Luis Nunez wins narrow decision in tough featherweight bout

Luis Nunez possessed power, enough of it to send echoes throughout a crowded arena. Jonathan Fierro had guts, enough of it to wonder at how he could still be standing.Power prevailed.

Nunez (17-0, 12 KOs), of the Dominican Republic, won, scoring a unanimous decision — 96-94 on all three cards — over Fierro (13-1, 12 KOs) in a terrific featherweight bout in the first televised bout on a Showtime card featuring David Benavidez-David Lemieux at Gila River Arena.

Nunez power was deadly and often precise. It shook Fierro’s balance. It rocked. But it never knocked him down. But Nunez’ accuracy was telling. He landed 44 percent of his body shots. It was just enough for a narrow victory on the scorecards. Fierro, a proud Mexican, left the ring in tears. But his exit was followed by only cheers.

Victor Ortiz wins unanimous decision

He’s 35 years old. He’s had movie roles. He’s been in the headlines. He’s been in the middle of controversy. It’s a long resume.It continues.

Victor Ortiz fights on, this time winning a back-and-forth battle for a unanimous decision over Todd Manuel at Gila River Arena Saturday in the last fight before the Showtime telecast of the David Benavidez-David Lemieux featured card.

Ortiz (33-7-3, 25 KOs), a World Boxing Council welterweight champion in 2011, suffered a cut near his left eye in the third round. He got knocked down in the final moments of the tenth and final round. But his power is still there. It rocked Manuel (20-20-1, 6 KOs), of Louisiana, repeatedly. The power was enough to overcome the cut and the knockdown. Power enough to survive once again.

Stoppage streak resumes

Elijah Garcia stayed at home. Stayed unbeaten, too. Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs), an emerging welterweight from Glendale AZ, put together a solid six rounds in his home town arena, mixing power and poise while scoring two knockdowns en route to a unanimous decision over Rowdy Montgomery (7-4-1, 5 KOs) Saturday on a card featuring David Benavidez-David Lemieux at Gila River Arena.It was the first fight on the card to go to the scorecards. The first five fights ended in stoppage. It looked as if Garcia might stop Montgomery in the third. That’s when dropped him twice. But the fighter from Victorville, Calif. recovered and was able to take the bout to the sixth and final round.

KO string continues

There was no power outage in the fifth fight. Richardson Hitchins (14-0, 6 KOs), a super-lightweight from Brooklyn, made sure of it. He kept the stoppage streak going, five-for-five, scoring a fourth-round TKO of Mexican Angel Rodriguez (12-11-3, 5 KOs) on the non-televised portion of the Benavidez-Lemieux card.

KO run continues: Stoppages in second, third and fourth fights on Benavidez-Lemieux card

It’s a card that promises knockouts. It didn’t take long for it to deliver.Four fights, four stoppages, opened the show, a powerful introduction on the non-televised card featuring the potential hard-hitting main event between David Benavidez and David Lemieux on Showtime. A first-round KO in the first bout was followed by a scary KO.Welterweight Estevan Villalobos (16-1-1, 12 KOs), another Washington fighter trained by Jose Benavidez Sr, landed a short right hand that lifted Christian Edwards up and onto the canvas midway through the third-round. Edwards (13-4, 6 KOs), of Houston, was flat on his back,, motionless, for several long seconds before he was helped to his feet. He was able to leave the ring under his own power.

The third fight was over within 99 seconds. Micky Scala (6-0, 4 KOs), a popular junior-middleweight from Mesa AZ, steamrolled Mike Plazola (2-2), knocking him down four times.

The fourth fight was over before the first round ended. Las Vegas super-middleweight Chavon Davis (1-0, 1 KO) barely had enough time to break a sweat in his pro debut. He blew away Brent Oren (4-9, 1 KO, of Virginia, midway through the first.

First Bell: Benavidez-Lemieux card begins with first-round KO

It was a matinee. A short one.

First bell still echoed through an empty Gila River Arena when the opening fight on the card featuring David Benavidez-David Lemieux ended Saturday.

It was over, 2:01 after the bell, lightweight Julio Hernandez (2-0, 2 KOs) the sudden winner. Hernandez — a Kent WA lightweight who had Benavidez dad and trainer, Jose Sr. in his corner — scored two knockdowns of Gibran Perez (0-1, a late stand-in who didn’t stand up for long.

Benavidez-Lemieux: Scale is no challenge for Benavidez this time

By Norm Frauenheim-

GLENDALE, Ariz. – It’s the only place he’s ever lost.

But the scale is no longer David Benavidez’ biggest challenge.

Benavidez (25-0, 22 KOs), who lost the World Boxing Council’s super-middleweight title when he failed to make the weight in 2020, came in under the 168-pound mandatory Friday for an interim belt in a Showtime-televised bout Saturday against David Lemieux (43-4, 36 KOs) at Gila River Arena.

Under a hot desert sun at high noon, Benavidez stepped lightly on a scale located on a stage set on a pavilion outside of the ice-hockey arena’s front doors.

No problem. Jenny Craig would have been proud. Benavidez was more than a pound lighter than the maximum. He was at 166.4 pounds. Lemieux, a former 160-pound champion, was at 166.2.

The 25-year-old Benavidez couldn’t recall when he’s ever been so light. He grew up chubby. He likes to joke that he was the fat kid in the background of photos that featured his older brother, Jose Benavidez Jr., a former national amateur champion and an ex-junior-welterweight belt-holder.

When asked whether his second son has ever been so light, father and trainer Jose Benavidez Sr. shouted:

“Never.’’

The scale had loomed as problematic since David Benavidez was stripped of the title after he was 2.8 pounds heavier than the limit in August 2020. He went on to score a 10^th-round stoppage of Roamer Alexis Angulo at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn. But he left the ring without the belt he has been trying to regain ever since.

Making the weight Friday is a key step in that direction. It keeps him in line for a mandatory shot at a title now in Canelo Alvarez’ possession. He has to beat Lemieux to stay there.

“David Benavidez is very solid, a big challenge,’’ said Lemieux, a Montreal fighter and the designated challenger in the main event on the Showtime telecast (7 pm PT/10 pm ET). “But I’m here to fight him. I’m here to take that belt away from him.’’

Benavidez is heavily-favored. He’s bigger. He’s younger. He’ll be fighting in front of a hometown crowd. He grew up in a tough Phoenix neighborhood, about seven miles from Gila River.

“This fight is not going to go the distance,’’ said Benavidez, who was already at the required weight on Monday. “It’s going to end in a knockout.

“And I’m going to win it.’’

VIDEO: Benavidez vs. Lemieux: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

BENAVIDEZ VS. LEMIEUX OFFICIAL WEIGHTS, AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS

Interim WBC World Super Middleweight Championship – 12 Rounds

David Benavidez – 166 ½ lbs.

David Lemieux – 166 ¼ lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock; Judges: Javier Alvarez (Texas), Tim Cheatham (Calif.), Chris Flores (Ariz.)

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Yoelvis Gómez – 156 ½ lbs.

Jorge Cota – 156 ½ lbs.

Referee: Wes Melton; Judges: Chris Flores (Ariz.), Dennis O’Connell (Ariz.), Gonzalo Valenzuela (Ariz.)

Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Luis Núñez – 126 lbs.

Jonathan Fierro – 125 ½ lbs.

Referee: Tony Zaino; Judges: Chris Flores (Ariz.), Dennis O’Connell (Ariz.), Gonzalo Valenzuela (Ariz.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez. Three more Hall of Famers are part of the most decorated telecast team in all of boxing: Emmy-Award winning event announcer Jim Gray as ringside reporter, boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. and world-renowned Jimmy Lennon Jr., as the ring announcer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The producer is Ray Smaltz III and the director is Chuck McKean. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna and former three-time super bantamweight world champion Israel Vázquez serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

#

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. LEMIEUX

Benavídez vs. Lemieux will see unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez look to thrill the fans in his home state once again when he takes on former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event, plus rising Dominican prospect Luis “The Twist” Núñez battles fellow unbeaten Jonathan Fierro in the 10-round featherweight telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

Benavidez-Lemieux: Old Canelo questions can’t silence the motivation in a toddler’s giggles

By Norm Frauenheim-

GLENDALE, Ariz. – For a few seconds, there was more to David Benavidez’ future than questions about Canelo Alvarez.

There was his son, Anthony, a toddler in the middle of an audience full of reporters at a boxing news conference.

Anthony giggled. Benavidez smiled, a sure sign that he knew why he was fighting. No question about that one.

The Canelo questions would soon follow. So, too, will another opening bell, this time against David Lemieux Saturday (Showtime 7 pm PT/10 pm ET) at Gila River, a National Hockey League arena about seven miles west of where he grew up in a tough neighborhood on Phoenix’s west side.

There weren’t too many real answers to the Canelo questions. Then again, there never are for Benavidez, who has been frustrated in his pursuit of a big money date with Canelo. The same questions were there the last time Benavidez was in town for a stoppage of Kyrone Davis in downtown Phoenix last November.

Lots has changed since then, of course. Canelo lost his aura of invincibility. Dmitry Bivol beat him. Anthony is walking. The last time Anthony was in Phoenix he was giving his daddy’s fans a fist bump from his stroller. He made his dad smile then, too. A son’s giggle is a father’s motivation. Dad fights on. Maybe, there’s a date with Canelo in his future. Maybe, not.

The business of keeping that possibility – questions and all – in place, however, is Benavidez’ immediate task. The fight is for a so-called interim title, the World Boxing Council’s super-middleweight version. Interim, of course, can mean just about anything. Interim titles get bought out by step-aside money. Interim gets forgotten, almost by definition.

But this one comes with a mandatory – also so-called — challenge of the WBC’s current champion, which happens to still be Canelo, the 168-pound division’s unified champ. The belts weren’t at stake against Bivol in a light-heavyweight stunner a couple of weeks ago.

A victory over Lemieux would also embellish Benavidez’ resume. Benavidez remembers watching Lemieux when he was a kid hanging out at Central Boxing near downtown Phoenix.

“He was the Canadian Mike Tyson,’’ Benavidez said Friday after a formal news conference in a room overlooking a floor that will include a ring instead of a rink Saturday.

Lemieux, of Montreal, has power, especially in his left hand. Lemieux, who lost his most notable fight by stoppage to Canelo rival Gennadiy Golovkin in 2015, is confident that Benavidez has never faced anybody with as much one-punch power.

“Of course not,’’ Lemieux said.

But Lemieux, a former middleweight champion, is moving up from his natural weight, 160 pounds, to 168. Benavidez (25-0, 22 KOs) is bigger in every measurable way. He’s also younger. Lemieux (43-4, 36 KOs) who has won his last five bouts, is 33. Benavidez is 25. The differences, in years and on the tape, explain the one-sided odds. Benavidez is about a 10-to-1 favorite. Yet, Lemieux’s documented power still looms as a factor.

“David Lemieux is the most dangerous fighter we’ve faced,’’ Benavidez father-and-trainer Jose Sr. said.

Still, David Benavidez is confident he has the skillset to deal with Lemieux’s power.

“It’s not like I’m going to go In there and try to test how strong my chin is,’’ he said. “We’ve worked hard in the gym, put together a plan to deal with his power. I definitely want to follow the game plan. I don’t care (if the KO) comes in the first, second, fifth or 12^th round. When it happens, it’ll happen.’’

Best guess: It’ll happen. It’s an element – documented power from both corners — that promises an explosive fight. That, too, is important for Benavidez’ larger resume. He’s pursuing more than just another victory. He wants to do something memorable against a fighter who can hurt him.

Translation: He wants to create a groundswell of support among a growing fanbase already restless for a showdown with Canelo. He’s more than a good dad. He’s a pugilist. And a populist.

Yet, there’s still a question whether any of it will ever lead to a date with Canelo. There’s even some disagreement about that within the Benavidez camp.

David Benavidez and his father think the loss to Bivol improves their chances at Canelo.

“I think it’s more likely now than it was,’’ said David, who learned enough about Bivol from sparring sessions a couple of years ago to know that the Russian had a real chance at beating Canelo. “Before Bivol, there was all this crazy stuff from Canelo about fighting at cruiserweight or even heavyweight. I think Canelo believed all that hype.

“But you’re not going to hear that any more. He’s going to have to come back down to 168 pounds. That means me.’’

But Benavidez promoter Sampson Lewkowicz thinks the chances at Canelo are less now than they were pre-Bivol. Canelo’s box-office value took a hit, Lewkowicz says. He also doesn’t think Canelo can restore it in a rematch. Bivol will beat him again, he says.

“There’s no $50 million out there for Canelo anymore,’’ Lewkowicz said. “Will he fight for less? $30 million? $20 million? $10 million? I don’t know. He might just walk away and decide to play golf.’’

A decision from Canelo is forthcoming. His current promoter, Eddie Hearn, says he expects Canelo to decide next week on whether he’ll fight an immediate rematch or go on to a third fight against Golovkin in September.

Whatever Canelo decides, there are still big opportunities for Benavidez. There’s Jermall Charlo and Caleb Plant. David Morrell has emerged as a possibility, too.

Benavidez will stay busy. A toddler’s giggle will make sure of it.

VIDEO: Benavidez vs. Lemieux: Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ VS. DAVID LEMIEUX FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

GLENDALE, AZ. – May 19, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and former world champion David Lemieux went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday as they previewed their 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title which headlines live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The press conference also featured hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez and Mexico’s Jorge Cota, who meet in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event, and unbeaten prospects Luis “The Twist” Núñez and Jonathan Fierro, who duel in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast opener at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

The 25-year-old Benavídez has twice captured super middleweight gold throughout his career, including becoming the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME in 2017 at just 20 years old. Now he will look to move closer to a third world title against Montreal’s Lemieux, a former middleweight champion who’s won three-straight bouts since moving to 168 pounds full time in late 2019.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the AZ Blue Club at Gila River Arena:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’ve had a tremendous training camp and everything has been perfect. The miles have been run, the rounds have been sparred and the weight has been lost already. I came in extremely prepared for this fight. We both have a lot of knockouts, so I’m just looking forward to giving the fans a war.

“I really want to go in there and earn this title. I have a lot of respect for Lemieux and I’ve been watching him since I was young, but he has a lot to worry about with me. I’m faster and stronger, but he’s got the experience, so this is going to be a great fight.

“I’m 100% focused on Lemieux. I’m focused on the task in front of me. I just take it one fight at a time. I like to put everything into the fight and figure out the rest later. I know Lemieux is very motivated for this fight, so my mind is 100% on him.

“I can guarantee a hell of a fight, a war, and that somebody is getting knocked out. Neither of us wants to go to a decision. The people are paying good money to see a knockout, and that’s what they’re going to get. I’m leaving with the title on Saturday night.

“I didn’t see my son for four months so I’m happy to be here and be around him again. I locked myself away for training camp and now I’m just excited to be here.

“Lemieux has a great resume with a lot of knockouts and I feel like he’s probably one of the most dangerous fighters I’ve faced. The only guys who are more dangerous than him, haven’t stepped up and taken the challenge.

“I’ve given Lemieux the respect he deserves. I’m already on weight and I’ve done everything right in training. Now I’m just ready to go in there and get a big victory.

“I want the big names. I feel like I’ve earned it. I’ve been champion twice and now I’m fighting for another belt. I’ve been wanting to fight the other big fighters, but they haven’t accepted the challenge.

“I don’t want to act like I’m just going to go in there and knock him out like it’s nothing. Sometimes fighters who you don’t think aren’t going to give you problems end up giving you problems. We have to see what happens, but I do feel like I’m going to get him out of there eventually.”

DAVID LEMIEUX

“When you want to become the world champion, you have to beat the best guy out there. Right now, Benavídez stands in front of me. That’s who I have to beat to be the world champion. Everybody knows that Benavídez is a very good fighter, but I think people are going to see that I’m a serious contender in the super middleweight division when I get that belt around me.

“It’s a big challenge, but I’m confident. I had a tremendous training camp for this fight. We’re ready physically and mentally. Benavídez is a good fighter. It’s going to be a hell of a show for the fight fans because he doesn’t like to do rounds and I don’t like to do rounds. We’ll see what happens.

“I don’t run away from anybody. I’ve never avoided any fight or any fighter. When I step in the ring, I’m the man to worry about. In this fight, there’s a solid guy in front of me, but I’m confident in my abilities and my strength and my power. We had a tremendous training camp to prepare specifically for Benavídez. I’m very confident in this approach. I have a lot of experience in the ring and I’m going to bring it on Saturday night.

“Yes, I do still have enough left in the tank. Absolutely. I’ve been an underdog in the past and I came up with the win. I know the difficulty that a fighter like David Benavídez poses and we came well-prepared to make sure we don’t get surprised in the ring.

“I’m very confident in my team and my abilities and what I have to do to walk out of here with that title. I have a lot of respect for David Benavídez. He’s a hell of a fighter. But the ring is the ring and I want to be a champion.

“Everything has changed in this camp. You change the mental just as much as the physical when you are fighting against a guy like David Benavídez. The guy is a bully and a brutal fighter. You change your work ethic in the gym. You punch harder. You’re more vicious. Everything is times ten.

“I bring power. Knockout power. I don’t care that he’s the so-called boogeyman of the division. He’s the fighter in front of me and I’m not scared of anybody. I’ll fight anybody. I’m scared of no man and on fight night, I’m determined to become champion.

“He’s a guy who comes to fight. I’m a guy who comes to fight. So I can promise the fans are going to have a great time. I promise that.”

YOELVIS GOMEZ

“I’m getting this knockout on Saturday night. I’m Not overconfident, just very relaxed. I’ve fought only five times as a pro, but I’ve had big amateur fights in my past. I’m just going to have fun on Saturday night.

“I want Cuban people to know that I feel their love and support across borders. I’m very excited to have their support like that.

“The knockout depends on how my opponent comes out to fight. However, if Cota comes out like I expect him to, don’t be surprised if the fight is over in the first round.

“My fists are going to dictate how long the fight lasts. I wish him and his team nothing but the best, but it’s ‘Viva Cuba’ on Saturday night.

“If he feels that it’s disrespectful that I’m fighting him so early in my career, then he better show it in the ring.”

JORGE COTA

“He will absolutely get a boxing lesson and get a lot of rounds on Saturday night. That’s what we came here for. I came here to show him what true experience and the true caliber of my quality is worth. Viva Mexico!

“I felt that it was an insult for me to be scheduled against somebody that only had five fights under his belt. To be honest with you, it did feel disrespectful. But I’m okay now and I’m here and ready to show what I’m worth.

“I guarantee that you’re going to have a super spectacular show. Anytime that I’ve fought on a PBC card, it has been a war and something to be witnessed. Watch out, we may just steal the show on Saturday night.”

LUIS NÚÑEZ

“This fight is just as important to me as the ones that have come before and the ones that will come after. I will say though, I’m definitely going to win this fight.

“I know that I have what it takes to showcase my talent on Saturday night. My goal is to show everyone watching that I’m here to stay.

“He can say that I don’t have the power to beat him. He can say whatever he wants. I’m going to do my talking in the ring on Saturday night and show everyone that I have enough power and more.

“I’m proud that the Dominican Republic is recognized for baseball, but I’m going to show Fierro that we’re also going to be recognized for boxing, thanks to me on Saturday night.”

JONATHAN FIERRO

“This fight is going to open up doors for me. I believe that Luis holds the key for me. I’m well aware that he’s unbeaten, but I believe in my ability to be able to hold the key, open that door and go through it.

“The Dominican Republic is recognized mostly for baseball. Mexico is recognized for boxing. I’m going to showcase why that’s the case and why Mexico is the hotbed of boxing while the Dominican Republic is the hotbed of baseball. On May 21, Luis is going to see firsthand what it’s like to fight against a Mexican fighter.

“We came here fully prepared and there is no thought at all about being nervous. I was born without fear.

“I’m going to take advantage by attacking his body, and I know that he will be looking to land his hook. I’m going to listen to what my corner tells me to do in order to avoid it.”

#

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. LEMIEUX
Benavídez vs. Lemieux will see unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez look to thrill the fans in his home state once again when he takes on former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ VS. DAVID LEMIEUX MAIN EVENT MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

PHOENIX – May 18, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and former world champion David Lemieux officially kicked off fight week events with a media workout on Wednesday ahead of their 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title which headlines live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features two exciting undercard matchups as hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez faces Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the co-main event, while Dominican prospect Luis “The Twist” Núñez squares off against Mexico’s Jonathan Fierro in a battle of unbeatens that kicks off the action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

The two-power punchers (combined 85% KO rate for Benavídez and Lemieux) showed off their skills at Central Boxing Gym, as they look to grab the interim title and move one step closer to regaining world champion status with an emphatic victory on Saturday night. For Benavídez, he will be returning to fight in his home state for the second-straight outing, after he knocked out Kyrone Davis in front of his hometown fans in November.

The fighters were joined by their respective trainers at the media event, with Benavídez’s father Jose Sr. in attendance in addition to Lemieux’s renowned trainer, Marc Ramsay. Here is what the workout participants had to say Wednesday:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I definitely want to go out there and follow my gameplan. I don’t care [if the KO] comes in the first, second, fifth or 12th round. When it comes, it comes. I visualize everything I’m going to do in the ring.

“I just hit the weight yesterday and now everything is amazing. We took that stress off the table after four months of hard work. Now, I’m excited to go out there, fight for the title and give the fans a great fight.

“It makes me happy to be able to inspire kids and to see the smiles on the faces of the people in my city. It’s inspiring to have them come out and support me the way that they do.

“It means the world to me to be here in my hometown with my family – both my son and my dad. Now I know what my dad meant when he said that once you have a child, your life changes. My son Anthony is 18 months and he’s given me so much motivation to be the best version of myself.I have a newfound focus and I’m ready to conquer the division.”

DAVID LEMIEUX

“On fight night I’ll be about 180 pounds. I don’t care what he is at. Maybe 190? It doesn’t really matter. I’ll be ready no matter what.

“If he wants a war, he’ll get a war. I’m strong and I’ve very confident in my abilities. I know he’s a very strong fighter, but we have a plan going in against him. We’re not worried and we will do what we have to do to be at our best on fight night. David Benavídez will have his hands full on Saturday night.

“If you know David Lemieux, he’s never refused a fight and he’s always taken whatever fight they put in front of him. When we had big fights in the past, we always took them. If you want to be a world champion you have to fight the best.

“He’s a great fighter and you can’t take anything away from him, but he’s never fought David Lemieux and he will see what that means on Saturday night. I know what I’m going in there against. Does he know what he’s going in against?”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Benavídez’s Father and Trainer

“I ran this gym for five years, and we never thought that we would get to where we are right now. My heart beats with pride seeing David be embraced like this. This is just the beginning though.

“I never thought I would be a boxing trainer. I just wanted to help my son achieve his goals. Now we are here and very thankful for everything we have been given.

“We are very focused on a hard-hitting opponent in Lemieux. It’s going to be a spectacular fight and we are not about to look any farther than that.”

MARC RAMSAY, Lemieux’s Trainer

“Everybody knows David Lemieux is an aggressive fighter, and David Benavídez is an aggressive fighter. I don’t think either fighter will change that the night of the fight. That’s only going to give the fans an exciting and action-packed fight. Because of the style of both fighters, it only guarantees it will be a great fight.

“Benavídez is a complete fighter. He’s a big guy, he’s fast, and he’s also powerful. So he’s the complete package. But at this level everyone has the package to become the elite. You cannot escape from these big fights if you want to be world champion.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. LEMIEUX

Benavídez vs. Lemieux will see unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez look to thrill the fans in his home state once again when he takes on former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event, plus rising Dominican prospect Luis “The Twist” Núñez battles fellow unbeaten Jonathan Fierro in the 10-round featherweight telecast opener.

David Morrell Jr. Puts Target on Benavidez’ Back, Will be Watching Closely this Weekend

HOUSTON, TX (May 18, 2022) – Undefeated super middleweight, David Morrell Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), who holds the WBA title, has his eyes on the main event this weekend between David Benavidez vs. David Lemieux, Saturday on Showtime.

“I am watching Benavidez vs. Lemieux carefully this weekend on Showtime” said Morrell. “I want the winner, and I am not being shy about it. I feel I am the best fighter in the division, and it is clear that no one wants to fight me. So, I have to call people out because I am so heavily avoided.”

Morrell, who has been out of the ring since his destruction of veteran Alantez Fox last December, has put a target on David Benavidez’ back.

“I saw that Benavidez mentioned my name with Jermall Charlo and Caleb Plant, well I’m hear to let him know that I’m not afraid of him like these guys are, I’m ready to fight him anytime, anywhere,” continued Morrell, who resides and represents the Twin Cities of Minneapolis, Minnesota. “If Benavidez dares to step in the ring with me, it will be like when his brother Jose got wrecked by Crawford. There’s going to be another Benavidez on the deck and his name is going to be David, not Jose. I’m putting a target on Benavidez’ back, I’m aiming to take him out.”

Morrell has been fast-tracked since turning pro, and despite only having six fights, has already capture a world title.

“I came to America to challenge the best fighters in the world like I did internationally in the amateurs for my countrymen of Cuba,” concluded Morrell. “When Benavidez and I step in the ring, it will be a monumental showdown, a fight everyone will be clamoring to see. I’m going to knock him out cold and establish myself as the next superstar in boxing.”

RISING DOMINICAN PROSPECT LUIS NÚÑEZ FACES FELLOW UNBEATEN JONATHAN FIERRO IN FEATHERWEIGHT BATTLE KICKING OFF THE TELECAST LIVE ON SHOWTIME® ON SATURDAY, MAY 21

GLENDALE, Ariz. – May 17, 2022 – Rising Dominican prospect Luis “The Twist” Núñez will battle fellow unbeaten Jonathan Fierro in the 10-round featherweight telecast opener live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast is headlined by unbeaten two-time world champion and Arizona-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez returning to fight in his home state for the second-straight bout as he takes on former world champion David Lemieux for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title. The telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

The non-televised undercard will see former world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz (32-7-3, 25 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight attraction against Todd Manuel (20-19-1, 6 KOs) and Mayweather Promotions’ rising unbeaten super lightweight contender Richardson Hitchins (13-0, 5 KOs) in a 10-round bout against Mexico’s Angel Rodriguez (12-10-3, 5 KOs).

A trio of Arizona-based prospects will also compete on the undercard, as super featherweight and Mesa-native Jesus Abel Ibarra (13-0, 6 KOs) steps in for a six-round contest against Mexico’s Moises Flores (25-6-1, 17 KOs), Glendale’s own Elijah Garcia (10-0, 9 KOs) competes in a six-round middleweight affair battling California’s Rowdy Montgomery (7-3-1, 5 KOs), while Mesa’s Micky Scala (5-0, 3 KOs), an intriguing prospect in the Mayweather Promotions stable, enters the ring facing Iowa’s Mike Plazola (2-1, 1 KO) for six rounds of super welterweight action.

Rounding out the lineup is welterweight Estevan Villalobos (15-1-1, 11 KOs) going up against Houston’s Christon Edwards (13-3, 6 KOs) in an eight-round bout, lightweight prospect Julio Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round duel, and the pro debut of Chavon Stillwell taking on Brent Oren (4-8, 1 KO) for a six-round super middleweight showdown.

After piling up an 85-5 amateur record, Núñez (16-0, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2018 and racked up knockouts in eight of his first nine outings. Fighting out of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Núñez made his U.S. debut in September 2021 by winning a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Jayvon Garnett on SHOBOX: The New Generation®. The 22-year-old followed up that performance by taking down another undefeated fighter, as he stopped Carlos Arrieta in the 10th round of their January showdown, also on SHOBOX®.

“Not many fighters get the opportunities that have been given to me,” said Núñez. “I feel blessed and grateful to be in this position. It was a great honor to fight on SHOWTIME in my last fight and I’m thankful to my whole team for being put on this platform. I’m going to make the most of this chance that I have. The best is yet to come!”

The 18-year-old Fierro (13-0, 12 KOs) made his U.S. debut in Arizona last November, as he stopped Victor Ruiz in the first round. A native of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Fierro most recently knocked out the previously unbeaten Daniel Bailey in March. A pro since late 2019, Fierro scored knockouts in his first seven fights before winning an eight-round unanimous decision in April 2021.

“First of all I want to thank everyone that has made this great opportunity possible for me,” said Fierro. “This is a dream come true and I can’t wait to get in the ring. I am training extremely hard to be at my best and show everyone what I’m capable of. Luis Núñez is a great fighter, but come May 21, he will know what it is to fight a true Mexican style warrior.”

#

David Morrell Jr. Seeks David Benavidez Showdown

HOUSTON, TX (May 10, 2022) – Undefeated WBA super middleweight champion, David Morrell Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), is ready to let the world know he wants the best fights possible, and as soon as possible. Morrell Jr., from his training camp in Houston, TX, with coach Ronnie Shields, says a fight with David Benavidez is what he seeks most.

“I look at someone like David Benavidez who claims to be avoided, but you never here him mention my name,” said Morrell Jr., who has knocked out five of his six opponents in the pro ranks. “He speaks as though he’s the boogeyman of the division, well fight me and let’s find out. He’s chasing a fight with Canelo, but I know I’ll give him a beatdown that he’ll never forget.”

After a monumental amateur career where he compiled an astonishing record of 130 wins with only 2 losses, Morrell Jr., an international star from Cuba, has looked indestructible in his first six fights as a professional. He’s been on the fast track to a world title and captured the WBA super middleweight world title in only his fifth fight as a pro.

“I’ve seen every style you can possibly think of in the amateurs, so I know how to beat a guy like Benavidez, who likes to come forward and bang,” continued Morrell. “David Benavidez is a great puncher with a lot of heart, and he’s a warrior, I’ll give him that, but he doesn’t have the skills that I possess. I’ll fight David Benavidez anytime, anywhere, but will he fight me, that is the question the fans want to know, myself included. Now the world knows who I want most, let’s see who the real boogeyman is…come to papa David, Boo!”

Canelo’s wish list grows, but it still doesn’t include David Benavidez

By Norm Frauenheim –

LAS VEGAS – Canelo Alvarez is moving up scale. Saturday it’s a bid for a light-heavyweight title held by Dmitry Bivol.

Then, there’s some business to finish with Gennadiy Golovkin in a third fight projected for September.

After that, he and his current promoter, Eddie Hearn, are talking about a unified title at 175 pounds, perhaps against Artur Beterbiev in May 2023.

He continues to talk about a fight at cruiserweight. Welterweight champion Errol Spence was mentioned for a date at a catch weight. Now, there’s even some wild talk about a move to heavyweight against Oleksandr Usyk.

A lot of names are mentioned, all there like milestones on the path to what Canelo calls history. There are no apparent limits to what Canelo hopes to do. Bivol might change that at T-Mobile Arena in a pay-per-view bout (DAZN). But that would be a huge upset.

If Canelo walks through Bivol the way he bulldozed Callum Smith, Caleb Plant and Billy Joe Saunders, his chances improve at actually doing what he envisions.

But at least one thing hasn’t changed. David Benavidez is still not in his plans. Among the myriad of names, weight classes and belts mentioned this week, there was no Benavidez. There was no mention of unbeaten middleweight belt-holder Jermall Charlo, either.

But increasingly Benavidez is the fighter at the top of the list. Take a poll. Benavidez, who faces David Lemieux on May 21 in Glendale AZ, is the fighter fans want to see against Canelo.

Even Hearn seemed to concede that much this week in a give-and-take with the media after a formal news conference Thursday.

“How can you say Charlo is a better fighter than Beterbiev? ‘’ Hearn said in a defensive counter to questions about the quality of Canelo’s opposition. “Are you mad? How can you say Charlo is a tougher fight than Dmitry Bivol at 175? Absolute rubbish.

“Who has Charlo ever beat? Keep going. Now, tell me the recent ones. (Juan Macias) Montiel? Terrible. He wasn’t motivated to fight. (Maciej) Sulecki? Lovely kid. But Sulecki? Put him in with Plant, with Benavidez.

“I think Benavidez could be the best of all of those.”

But it’s the best of a group that continues to be ignored in Canelo’s grand plan. For now, at least, that means the unbeaten Benavidez, a two-time former super-middleweight champion from Phoenix, is consigned to play the historical role that once belonged to Antonio Margarito. Oscar De La Hoya wouldn’t fight Margarito. Floyd Mayweather wouldn’t fight Margarito.

Hearn, however, suggests that Benavidez can change that role. It’s clear Hearn, like the fans, can see the explosive potential in a Benavidez-Canelo fight.

“That’s a big fight,’’ Hearn said.

But, Hearn also said, it’s up to Benavidez’ promotional team to put him in a better position to get the Canelo date he has sought for just about as long as Canelo has pursued history.

“Ultimately, the fights against Benavidez and Charlo are just voluntary defenses of his 168-pound title,” Hearn said. “He could (fight Benavidez at 175 pounds). But that’s another voluntary defense. If you said to Canelo, what would you rather do? ‘Fight Benavidez in a voluntary defense or fight Beterbiev for the undisputed light-heavyweight championship?’ it’s not even a conversation.

“Benavidez wants big fights. It’s embarrassing who they’re fighting. Why don’t you make Charlo versus Benavidez? Why don’t you make Benavidez versus Plant. You give them all these easy fights for all this money and they’re not selling. You’re just burning money.

“Get the guys together, make the fights. I know Benavidez. He wants the big fights. It’s PBC’s job to put him in big fights and they’re not. Canelo-Benavidez could be a massive fight.

“But it’s nowhere near what it could be.”

Interesting.Got it.Wow.

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. DAVID LEMIEUX VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

GLENDALE, AZ. – April 26, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and former world champion David Lemieux previewed their 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title with both knockout artists forecasting fireworks during a virtual press conference Tuesday before headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT headlined by Benavídez returning to fight in his home state of Arizona for the second straight outing after delivering a knockout victory over Kyrone Davis in November 2021 on SHOWTIME. He will be taking on a hard-hitting former champion in Lemieux, making May 21 a clash of power punchers , as the two fighters have combined for 58 knockouts in their 68 wins (85% KO rate).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m very excited to go into this fight against Lemieux, because he’s a guy I’ve watched for a long time and I like his style. We both have similar styles because we go for the knockout. That gets me very excited and motivates me a lot.

“We’re also fighting for the interim title and that makes the stage that much bigger. I’ve been training hard in camp for about three months getting ready for this fight. I’m just ready to go back home and win that title.

“If you win the interim title that means the next fight has to be for the title. I don’t think it should be any difference in this case. If Canelo Alvarez wants to fight at light heavyweight, then he’s going to have to vacate. It’s only fair.

“I train extremely hard to make sure I get the knockout. I just feel like I’m at my peak right now. I have a lot of skills, power and great experience. I know it won’t be easy, but I’ve done everything right in the gym.

“I see flaws in David’s game and I’m sure he sees flaws in me. I know he wants to stop me, and I want to stop him. This is going to be a great fight for the fans. This could be the Fight of the Year because of what’s at stake and because of the type of fighters we are. We’re two bulls going in there to see who has the most heart.

“I just want everyone to see that I’m the best in this weight class. I’m only looking at the fight in front of me. I have to win this fight before I can win anything else. But I do feel like everyone knows where I stand in this division. I’ve been calling out the best and I respect Lemieux for stepping up to take this fight.

“I wanted to fight back in Arizona again because we had a great event in November. This is my first title fight back at home and it’s a dream come true for me. Everything has fallen into place for me. I’ve had an amazing camp and I’m preparing for a great opponent. This has all the makings for a great fight. The energy is right. This is one of the biggest fights of my life and that’s how seriously I’m taking it.

“We’ve been in camp for a long time and we’ve been feeding off of each other’s energy. I’ve been putting in the work and getting my miles in. Seeing Jose Valenzuela and Diego Pacheco have great victories gives me even more energy. We’re all like brothers and we all push each other.

“The main goal for myself is to become unified champion at 168-pounds. It’s not just about me. I have a lot of fans that support me, and I’m doing it for them. They’ve supported me so much, so I want them to know that I’ve put 110% into training camp every time they come to a fight.

“I feel like I deserve the biggest fights. I’ve paid my dues and I’ve been here for a long time. But I have plenty of fuel in the gym solely because of how big this fight is. I think the other top guys are making a mistake not giving me the fight now, because the more I’m in the ring, the more I’m learning. It’s going to turn around and bite them when it’s time to get in the ring with me. Everything is going to be through the roof.”

DAVID LEMIEUX

“I’m expecting a great fight. David Benavídez is a very tough fighter. We’ve been watching him for a while. He’s always very exciting. His style of fighting – he comes to fight – there’s no messing around with him. That’s my style too. Two bulls going in there and may the best man win this title. We want that WBC belt around my waste and I’m planning on having it on fight night.

“I know it’s a difficult fight. I’m training very hard and doing everything I need to do inside the gym. I don’t want to lose this opportunity. I know Benavídez is a great fighter. I’m going to work very hard and bring the best that David Lemieux can bring. I’m leaving with the WBC title on fight night.

“I do believe that my power will translate at 168 pounds. I’ve been working a lot to integrate into the 168-pound division and I believe my power will be at its peak on fight night. Benavídez is a big guy. We know that. But we’re preparing and we have the right sparring partners. I’m going to go in there and be very strong. It’s been a long time since I’ve had an opponent like Benavídez, but I’m excited. I’m very hyped up about this fight. I know what a victory will do for my career and I won’t miss my shot.

“I’m not looking past this fight. I’m just concentrated on Benavidez. This is a big fight ahead of me. Canelo chooses a lot of his fights but there are rules in boxing that you have to respect. The winner of the interim belt has to fight the champion so if he follows the rules, the rules are the rules. That’s it.

“It’s definitely a big task in front of me. When I sat down with my team and Benavídez’s name came up, we knew it was a tough fight. He’s a tough fighter and a big guy, but we’re preparing and getting ready for him. It’s all in the preparation. Styles make fights. I have the style to hurt Benavídez and I’m training hard to beat this guy.

“Anything can be done, you just have to go out and do it. David Benavídez is a very good fighter but everybody is beatable. Nobody is invincible. That’s what we have to prove. There’s no cheating boxing. You train hard for a fight. You don’t underestimate your opponent and surprises can happen. I’m planning on bringing that title back home to Montreal.

“Regardless of your age, it’s really now or never in every fight in the boxing ring. You don’t get many chances to leave a good mark in the game, so every fight needs to be taken very seriously, especially a fight of this magnitude. There’s a lot at stake for me. I know I’m the underdog, but I don’t care. I’m just going in there to fight, underdog or not. I’ve been the underdog in the past and I’ve won the fights. It doesn’t really bother me.

“The eight pounds makes a world of a difference. 160 pounds was very difficult to make, especially towards the end. I feel great training at 168. I’m very comfortable making that weight. I’m training very hard, building strength and muscle and not worrying about cutting weight. I’m feeling great.

“I feel like I’ve been underestimated during my career. But the only way to come back is with a strong victory against an opponent of an elite level. That’s what I’m planning on doing on May 21.”

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event.

DAVID BENAVIDEZ MEDIA ROUNDTABLE QUOTES

On Saturday, May 21, Benavídez will face former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

Here is what the roundtable participants had to say Saturday:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

On his aggressive style:

“Every fight I go into, I either want to get a knockout or a stoppage. I think I have five straight stoppages since I came back from my suspension. That’s the plan. I want to go in there and I don’t want to leave any doubt. The stoppage is always the main thing I go for.”

On facing David Lemieux:

“With the style that David Lemieux has, it’s basically tailormade for my style to go in there and stop him. But it’s not going to be easy. David Lemieux is really motivated too. He’s fighting for another title just like I am. He’s a big puncher. I’m going in there and I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be a fun fight.

“As one of the best super middleweights in the world, you have to work around your opponents not trying to exchange with you. You have to learn how to deal with adversity. I don’t want to be like Edgar Berlanga who says I didn’t knock this guy out because he was running from me the whole fight. You’re going to get people that run from you the whole fight. It’s up to you to figure that out and try to knock them out.”

On moving up to light heavyweight:

“I feel like besides Caleb Plant or Jermall Charlo, Demetrius Andrade is the only other fight that makes sense. These other fighters I want are Caleb Plant, Jermall Charlo and even Edgar Berlanga. And if not, I think it might be time to go up to 175 pounds. I’ve been trying to make all these fights happen for a long time. I feel like right now, when I win the WBC interim title, I’ll have a little bit more leverage. But if I can’t make them happen, it’s because the fighters don’t want to make the fight with me happen.

On facing Canelo Alvarez:

“To be honest, right now I’m kind of forgetting about a Canelo fight because he’s over there doing his thing. He’s going to fight Bivol and then Golovkin. So, I feel like I have to take this route and fight everybody over here. At the end of the day, that’s going to give me the experience I need. Canelo is where he’s at because he has experience. He’s fought a lot of great fighters, so if I go the same route and fight all these great fighters and beat them, then I’ll have enough experience to go in there and have the confidence to beat Canelo.”

On facing Caleb Plant:

“I hope Caleb Plant is serious about fighting in the second half of the year. I’m serious. We’ve let this fight marinate as long as possible. Now it’s going to be an even better position because once I get the WBC interim title against David Lemieux, there will be no excuse not to fight me. He said he wants the rematch with Canelo. Well, this is the best step to do it.”

On fighting in his home state of Arizona:

“I think fighting in Arizona again is going to be even better than last time. This time, it’s for the WBC interim title. A title fight against another great ex-champion. People out there love me. I have a lot of fans and supporters in Arizona. I’m excited. A lot of people are going to be there and I’m definitely going to put on a show.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA

On a Benavidez vs. Plant matchup:

“It makes sense. I think one thing that the pandemic reminded everybody is that it can be taken away at any minute. This could all disappear. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that coming out of the pandemic, we have had no issue making tough fights. If you look at our schedule, it’s all tough fights. Nobody is getting easy fights. I do think that this has had an effect on people. These are fights that need to be made. Life is short, so let’s do it.”

#

Unbeaten Two-Time World Champion and Phoenix-Native David Benavídez Battles Former World Champion David Lemieux Headlining Live on SHOWTIME® Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. in Premier Boxing Champions Event

GLENDALE, Ariz. – March 30, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez will look to thrill the crowd in his home state for the second consecutive time when he battles former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, March 31 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

“I’m looking forward to this fantastic fight between David Benavídez and David Lemieux on May 21,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “It will be bombs away between two great punchers when they get in the ring and whoever wins will be at the top of the division and looking at some very big fights on the horizon.”

“David Benavídez is one of the most feared punchers in the sport, and the fans in his home state of Arizona will be able to see their local hero once again on May 21 when he challenges a fellow knockout artist in former champion David Lemieux,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “There will be an exciting undercard live on SHOWTIME leading up to Benavídez’s showdown with Lemieux that will see the winner capture the interim WBC Super Middleweight title and move one step closer to regaining their world champion status.”

Still just 25-years-old, Benavídez (25-0, 22 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out his last five opponents, including a September 2019 knockout of two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. Most recently, Benavidez returned to fight in Arizona for the first time since 2015 and delivered a dominating seventh-round knockout of Kyrone Davis. Benavídez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Benavídez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first title opportunity.

“I’m excited to be fighting for another belt, and I’m training extremely hard because it is another big opportunity for my career and future,” said Benavídez. “David Lemieux still has a lot of power, so I have to make sure I sharpen all my skills 100 percent. I’m confident I can stop Lemieux and I’m planning on giving my fans another great fight on May 21.”

Fighting out of his native Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Lemieux (43-4, 36 KOs) has won five consecutive bouts heading into May 21, including three-straight wins since moving up to super middleweight in December 2019. The 33-year-old became a middleweight world champion in June 2015, defeating Hassan N’Dam to capture the belt before dropping a unification bout against Gennadiy Golovkin later that year. Lemieux would earn a second shot at the 160-pound title, eventually dropping a decision to Billy Joe Saunders in December 2017. Lemieux is a proven power-puncher who owns knockouts over a slew of contenders including Curtis Stevens, Gabriel Rosado, Gary O’Sullivan and Glen Tapia.

“Ever since I turned professional, I’ve had my eyes on the WBC belt,” said Lemieux. “This is my chance to grasp it. This is a very important fight for me and I plan on making a strong statement on May 21. I’m coming to win.”

The 24-year-old Gómez (5-0, 5 KOs) made a big statement in his U.S. debut on Christmas, blasting out the typically durable Clay Collard in the first round of their showdown. Born in Havana, Cuba and now fighting out of Las Vegas, the southpaw showed power in both hands and relentless finishing skills, immediately making him a rising contender in the talent-laden super welterweight division.

“I’m very excited to be making my SHOWTIME debut against a tough veteran fighter like Jorge Cota, who has been in the ring with some very big names,” said Gómez. “I want to deliver a memorable outing with a spectacular performance. I’m going for the knockout and I’m not going to be shy about it. I can’t wait to show everyone watching that I’m the new monster in the super welterweight division. This is a dream come true for me and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by. I want to be recognized as the next great fighter from Cuba and with the new breed of Cuban fighters who are big punchers with great ring IQ’s.”

Cota (30-5, 27 KOs) is a rugged slugger who will present a step-up for the rising Gómez on May 21. Cota most recently dropped a May 2021 bout against unbeaten Sebastian Fundora and has also shared the ring with unified 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo, former unified world champion Jeison Rosario and top contender Erickson Lubin. The 34-year-old from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico scored back-to-back stoppage victories prior to the Fundora fight, defeating Thomas LaManna and Cesar Chavez.

“I honestly don’t see much in Gómez as a fighter,” said Cota. “I don’t understand why his team picked me as an opponent because he lacks experience and has never fought anyone at my level. He’s not ready for the kind of pressure that I’m going to bring. I strongly believe he made a mistake in agreeing to this fight.”

#

SHOWTIME SPORTS® UNVEILS LOADED BOXING SCHEDULE FEATURING MARQUEE MATCHUPS FROM PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS WITH TWO WORLD TITLE UNIFICATIONS, SEVEN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOUTS AND THREE WORLD TITLE ELIMINATORS ACROSS FIVE MONTHS

NEW YORK – March 15, 2022 – SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions today announced nine boxing events across the first half of 2022 featuring some of the sport’s most accomplished and dynamic stars in highly competitive matchups. The lineup pits champions against champions and top contenders against top contenders to form the strongest and most ambitious schedule in the industry.

The robust lineup includes:

Nine marquee events across five months featuring 21 undefeated fighters;
Two world championship unifications bouts, one for all four world title belts and the coveted title of Undisputed Champion, and one for three world title belts;
Seven world championship matches with at least 13 world title belts at stake and three world title eliminators;
All of the top-six ranked super welterweights fighting in a seven-week span;
Several pivotal crossroads fights from super bantamweight to super middleweight with an average of two events per month through July.

The massive schedule features the sport’s biggest stars: Errol Spence, Jr., Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Jermell Charlo, David Benavidez and Jermall Charlo.

There are also 18 fighters aged 27 years and younger including unified world champion Stephen Fulton, Jr., and highly regarded, undefeated welterweight contender Jaron “Boots” Ennis. With this emphasis on youth and kingmaking, SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions are well positioned to carry the sport into the future.

Led by Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc., and four-time Emmy^® Award-winning executive producer David Dinkins, Jr., who guides an all-star cast of commentators and production aces, SHOWTIME^® remains the most tenured and trusted platform in boxing.

Arguably the best active welterweight of this era, the undefeated Spence, already a unified champ, will seek to collect a third world title when he puts his WBC and IBF straps on the line against WBA World Champion Yordenis Ugas on Saturday, April 16 in the main event on SHOWTIME PPV^® at AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. Spence-Ugas is only the 12^th unification match in the history of the welterweight division, joining classic matchups such as “Sugar” Ray Leonard vs. Thomas Hearns I and Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao. The match is rich with intrigue as Spence attempts to claim supremacy in one of boxing’s deepest divisions, while Ugas, who nearly quit the sport, aims to complete a stunning turnaround after beating eight-division world champion Pacquiao in August.

Boxing superstar and five-time, three-division world champion Tank Davis will headline his fourth straight SHOWTIME PPV event against nemesis Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY, for Davis’ WBA Lightweight World Title. The bout comes on the heels of Davis’ hard-fought 12-round unanimous decision win over Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in which Davis overcame an injury in front of a star-studded, sellout crowd in Los Angeles last December.

WBO 154-pound No. 1-ranked contender Tim Tszyu, the son of Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, who fought many of his most memorable bouts on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, will make his U.S. debut Saturday, March 26 against 2012 U.S. Olympian and top contender Terrell Gausha at The Armory in Minneapolis. The streaking southpaws Erickson Lubin and Sebastian Fundora will engage in a Super Welterweight Title Eliminator, for the WBC interim title, in the second of back-to-back, intriguing crossroads matchups in the division on Saturday, April 9 from Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas.

Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño once again will seek to become the first undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era and just the third overall undisputed champion today when they meet in a rematch of their 2021 classic on Saturday, May 14 in Los Angeles. Plus, rising welterweight star Ennis, possiblythe most talented boxer yet to win a world title, returns as the co-feature against Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator.

Former two-time world champion Benavidez returns to action on Saturday, May 21 against knockout artist David Lemieux at 168 pounds in Phoenix, Ariz., in a bout between two of the sport’s biggest punchers.

Fulton, in his first bout since his title unification win in the 122-pound division against Brandon Figueroa, will defend his titles on Saturday, June 4 in Minneapolis, against former unified world champion Danny Roman in another can’t miss matchup.

Jermall Charlo will defend his WBC Middleweight World Championship for the fifth time on Saturday, June 18, when he faces former world title challenger, WBC No. 6-ranked Maciej Sulecki on the Juneteenth holiday weekend in Houston.

On Saturday, July 9, in San Antonio, Texas, newly minted WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark Magsayo will make his first title defense since dethroning Gary Russell Jr., on SHOWTIME against unbeaten mandatory challenger and former super bantamweight titleholder Rey Vargas.

Additional high-stakes matches will be announced as individual fight cards fill out.

“It’s a good time to be a boxing fan and SHOWTIME viewer with so many high-level, consequential matchups on our schedule,” said Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “We continue to grow the sport at every level, from our grassroots series SHOBOX to crowning unified and undisputed champions across boxing’s deepest divisions. When you consider the competitive nature of these fights, the star power of fighters like Errol Spence, Jr., ‘Tank’ Davis, David Benavidez, the Charlo brothers—and the youthful vitality of Stephen Fulton, Jr., Jaron Ennis and Brandun Lee—it’s never been clearer that SHOWTIME is the destination for the most compelling fights and will be for years to come. This SHOWTIME Boxing lineup is hands down the most potent of any network or platform in 2022.”

The SHOWTIME Sports boxing schedule features seven editions of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® and two significant SHOWTIME PPV events, all presented by Premier Boxing Champions:

· March 26 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

The Armory, Minneapolis, Minn.

Tim Tszyu vs. Terrell Gausha, Super Welterweight Bout
Michel Rivera vs. Joseph Adorno, Lightweight Bout
Elvis Rodriguez vs. Juan Jose Velasco, Super Lightweight (142 LBS) Bout

· April 9 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

The Theatre at Virgin Hotels, Las Vegas

Erickson Lubin vs. Sebastian Fundora, WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title
Tony Harrison vs. Sergio Garcia, Super Welterweight Bout
Kevin Salgado vs. Bryant Perrella, Super Welterweight Bout

· April 16 – SHOWTIME PPV

AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

Errol Spence Jr. vs. Yordenis Ugas, WBC, WBA & IBF Welterweight World Championship Unification

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING (preceding PPV):

Radzhab Butaev vs. Eimantas Stanionis, WBA Welterweight Title Bout
Brandun Lee vs. Zachary Ochoa, Super Lightweight Bout

· May 14 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

Los Angeles

Jermell Charlo vs. Brian Castaño II, Undisputed IBF, WBA, WBC & WBO Super Welterweight World Championship Unification
Jaron Ennis vs. Custio Clayton, IBF Welterweight Eliminator

· May 21 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

Phoenix

David Benavidez vs. David Lemieux, Super Middleweight Bout
Yoelvis Gomez vs. Jorge Cota, Super Welterweight Bout

· May 28 – SHOWTIME PPV

Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY

Gervonta Davis vs. Rolando Romero, WBA Lightweight World Championship

· June 4 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

Minneapolis

Stephen Fulton, Jr. vs. Danny Roman, WBO & WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship
David Morrell vs. Kalvin Henderson, WBA Super Middleweight World Title

· June 18 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

Houston

Jermall Charlo vs. Maciej Sulecki, WBC Middleweight World Championship

· July 9 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

San Antonio

Mark Magsayo vs. Rey Vargas, WBC Featherweight World Championship

For more information and future fight announcements visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME^®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX^®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV^®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

Canelo’s application of the Mayweather formula eliminates Benavidez

By Norm Frauenheim –

The deal is done, all nine figures of it, without any chance that Canelo Alvarez will face David Benavidez over the next year.

It’s not a surprise. It’s more of a pattern. Months ago, Canelo and his trainer, Eddy Reynoso, were clear that their plans did not include Benavidez.

If not now, when?

It’s an unanswered question. The pressure is on Benavidez to provide an answer. Canelo put it there, squarely on his young shoulders, in interviews after Canelo’s May 7 date with light-heavyweight Dmitry Bivol on May 7 at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena was formally announced Wednesday.

Canelo repeated his mantra about his pursuit of history. He suggested there was no chance at making some against Benavidez or Jermall Charlo. He suggested that they needed to fight each other.

Mostly, he said they needed to bring more to the table in terms of legacy, a word that is at the cornerstone of the marketing for the Canelo-Bivol bout, the first in a rich Matchroom deal expected to lead to a third Canelo fight with Gennadiy Golovkin.

On the virtual fight poster, it says “Legacy Is Earned.’’ In social media, it comes with a hashtag, #legacyisearned. Intentional or not, the message to Benavidez and Charlo is that they haven’t earned enough of it.

“They have nothing to offer,’’ Canelo told reporters after the Bivol bout was announced at a news conference in San Diego. “I just want to make history, and they have nothing to offer me.’’

Canelo’s kind of history, of course, is attached to more than a hashtag. There’s a dollar sign, a very big one. According to some reports, the deal for perhaps three fights is worth $160 million.

That’s a lot of legacy, enough to be a powerful factor in any calculation of the risk-to-reward ratio.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. perfected it.

Canelo learned it.

It’s impossible to understand Canelo’s career without his loss to Mayweather on Sept. 14, 2013 at Vegas’ MGM Grand. The loss was a lesson, on both sides of the ropes for Canelo, who was 23 – two years younger than Benavidez – when he lost a decision to Mayweather.

In the eight-plus years since then, Canelo has evolved as a boxer. And a businessman. He has succeeded Mayweather at the top of the game because of what he learned from him.

There are two fundamentals: Knowing who to fight. And when to fight him.

It’s no coincidence that Canelo has waited until GGG turned 40 before a second rematch of their two controversial bouts, the first a draw and the second a Canelo victory by majority decision.

Assuming GGG beats Ryota Murata on April 9 in Japan, he’ll face Canelo, still well within his prime. He’ll turn 32 on July 18. Insert the respective ages to the risk-to-reward equation, and GGG looks less risky than a 25-year-old Benavidez, especially for a payday that could exceed $50 million.

Put it this way: Who would you fight? Dumb question. It’s GGG every time.

It’s hard to see how the emerging Benavidez ever gets included in Canelo’s application of the risk-reward ratio. Benavidez, expected to fight Canadian David Lemieux in May perhaps in hometown Phoenix, is just entering his prime. He’ll be 30 in five years. By then, Canelo might have moved from the gym to the golf course for good.

Benavidez might be to Canelo what Antonio Margarito was to Mayweather. Mayweather never fought Margarito. That’s not because he couldn’t beat him. He could. He probably would have. But it would have been a very tough fight. Margarito was tough and aggressive. He was dangerous. Manny Pacquiao beat him, scoring a one-sided decision in November 2010 on the Dallas Cowboys’ home field in Arlington, Tex.

But Pacquiao got hurt by a huge body shot midway through the bout from Margarito. It took something from Pacquiao. The Filipino great was never quite the same fighter, so relentless and fearless early in his pro career.

Pacquiao won. But he paid a price. Mayweather wouldn’t go there. A likely victory wasn’t worth the potential cost.

It looks as if Canelo sees Benavidez the same way. Canelo would probably beat him. But Benavidez’ size, high volume of punches and relentless pursuit could take a toll. The risk is a steep price, one not worth it on a scale that has rewarded Canelo with Mayweather-like money.

Big numbers still add up to no Canelo for David Benavidez

By Norm Frauenheim –

It looks as if Canelo Alvarez has more deals on the bargaining table these days than he has clubs in his golf bag. There’s no end to the reported options or the money. Mostly, the money.

The unsourced reports are all over the proverbial ballpark. Eight-five million dollars here. A hundred-million over there. Only the B-word — as in billion — hasn’t been reported. Given today’s inflation rate, that one can’t be too far away.

It’s always safe to attach some skepticism to the dollar sign next to those eight and nine-figure sums. When talks begin at boxing’s bargaining table, they might as well be speaking Russian. The numbers are hard to understand. Harder to believe. But they do include some lessons, especially for David Benavidez. He continues to be the odd man out.

He knows that. He’s known it for a while.

“Of course, I want to fight Canelo, (Caleb) Plant, (Jermall) Charlo, any of those guys,’’ Benavidez, a Phoenix native, said Wednesday during a media workout featuring middleweight prospect Diego Pacheco in Rancho Fe, CA. “But they don’t want to fight me, so I’ll fight who I have to fight, become a world champion until they have no choice but to face me.”

The abundance of Canelo’s options and his proven pay-per-view numbers allow him to do whatever he wants. For now and probably for a while, what he doesn’t want is a date with Benavidez.

Instead, all of the reports point to a Matchroom Boxing deal for a Canelo fight in May with light-heavyweight Dmitry Bivol that could lead to a third bout with Gennadiy Golovkin, according to ESPN. As of Friday, however, there was no agreement.

“About my next fight nothing is confirmed,’’ Canelo said in a tweet Thursday.

ESPN reported that GGG has yet to agree. He’s training for a bout at middleweight in Japan with Ryota Murata in April. He’s expected to beat Murata. But he’s past his prime and a third fight with Canelo is past its due date. GGG turns 40 on April 9. He still argues that he beat Canelo, first in a fight judged to be a draw in 2017 and then a rematch that Canelo won by majority decision in September 2018.

The lingering controversy perhaps is still reason enough for a third fight. It’s a chance for Canelo to shut up the doubters, once and for all. For the aging GGG, it’s a chance to make his point and an opportunity at one more big payday. But it’s a little late in the game.

The momentum, at least among younger fans, is swinging increasingly toward Benavidez-versus-Canelo.

On their respective career paths, Benavidez and GGG are going in opposite directions. GGG’s best days are behind him. Benavidez’ best is still ahead of him. The two-time former super-middleweight champion, who is expected face David Lemieux in a spring bout perhaps in hometown Phoenix, is about 15 years younger than GGG. He turned 25 on December 17.

That’s why Canelo appears to be leaning toward a deal that leads to GGG instead of a reported PBC offer that would have led to Benavidez.

On the risk-to-reward ratio – a formula that Canelo has learned and applied ever since his lone loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in September 2013, the choice is easy. Frustrating too, for Benavidez and his growing crowd of supporters who see him as the only real threat to Canelo Inc.

Canelo’s many options leave Benavidez with only frustration

By Norm Frauenheim-

Canelo Alvarez has options. David Benavidez has only frustration.

Canelo’s future has become a multiple-choice game. He was thinking about cruiserweight. Then, there are reports about a super-middleweight defense against a middleweight champion. Or, maybe a light-heavyweight challenge between tee times.

None of the above. Or all of the above. Benavidez is not among the reported possibilities, despite a growing number of fans and pundits who are calling for Canelo to fight him. ESPN’s Tim Bradley is just the latest to cast his vote for Canelo-Benavidez.

‘’That’s the guy that everybody wants to see him face, you know,’’ Bradley said during an ESPN telecast about the mounting speculation surrounding Canelo’s next fight.

But, you know, Benavidez is the one guy Canelo isn’t considering. His trainer, Eddy Reynoso, said so, eliminating Benavidez from a projected May 7 date.

Actually, Reynoso did more than eliminate Benavidez. He insulted him, or at least dismissed his resume. It just doesn’t measure up, Reynoso said in so many words. That brought on an inevitable counter from Benavidez, who extended his unbeaten record (25-0, 22 KOs) with a stoppage of Kyrone Davis in front of a roaring hometown crowd of about 8,000 in downtown Phoenix Nov. 13.

“It kind of, like, frustrates me now that everybody’s coming out and saying I haven’t fought nobody, that I’ve never fought on pay-per-views, I’m nobody, this and that,” Benavidez said during an appearance on the Calling Russ Anber podcast. “You can say all that, but I’m going through the ranks at super middleweight. I’ve been number one like three fights already. I’ve been beating the people I have to beat.

“The people love to see me fight, so why wouldn’t he want to fight me?’’

Good question.

Other than an opening bell, there’s not a very good answer. Inevitably, there’s talk that Canelo is simply ducking Benavidez. Maybe.

For now, however, there’s only one thing that seems to guide Canelo’s thinking on who he will — or won’t fight. A belt has to be involved. Benavidez doesn’t have one. At least, he doesn’t anymore. The World Boxing Council’s 168-pound belt was taken from him twice, first for testing positive for cocaine and then for not making weight.

Belts are like hood ornaments. They’re cheap and plentiful. But Canelo still places value on them. They are symbols, perhaps, in the history Canelo says he is pursuing.

Presumably, that’s why Reynoso mentioned cruiserweight Illungu Makabu. Makabu has a belt, the WBC’s version. A two-division jump up the scale generated a lot of headlines and social-media talk. But the possibility has cooled over the last several weeks. Makabu defends his title on Jan. 29 against Thabiso Mchunu Jan. 29 on a Don King-promoted card in Warren, Ohio.

King, of course, is still trying to trumpet the Canelo possibility. After all, he has to sell the pay-per-view. But even King hinted that Canelo’s interest has cooled.

“Hopefully, I can get him to come on in to the fight,’’ King said last week during a Zoom session for a card scheduled for a chilly locale. “So far, he don’t want to come in to that cold snow. Maybe, the sun will shine one day.’’

And, maybe, Canelo will fight Jermall Charlo instead. Talks for a May fight with Charlo, first reported by ESPN, make more sense than a risky jump up to cruiserweight.

Against Charlo, Canelo would eliminate much of the risk and retain all of the reward. It would be Charlo’s first fight at 168 pounds. But he has the one thing Benavidez doesn’t. He has a belt, the WBC’s 160-pound version.

The other Canelo possibility is at light-heavy. Joe Smith Jr. and Dmitry Bivol have been mentioned. They, too, have one thing in common: A belt. Smith retained the World Boxing Organization’s 175-pound version with a stoppage of Steve Geffrard. Bivol has a World Boxing Association belt.

Without one, Benavidez has only frustration.

His immediate future figures to include faded Montreal middleweight David Lemieux. Caleb Plant is also there. Plant is looking for a comeback from his one-sided loss to Canelo, who took his International Boxing Federation belt in a beatdown that ended in an 11^th-round TKO on Nov. 6.

Benavidez and Plant had set the stage for a showdown with trash-talking exchanges. But it all ended when Canelo decided he wanted another belt. Benavidez-Plant could still be a good fight.

For Benavidez, it also would be a yardstick, one way to measure himself against the pay-per-view star who continues to elude him.

A stoppage of Plant in an earlier round than the 11^th would give Benavidez some bragging rights. That’s better than just more of the same frustration.

AUDIO: Jesse Hart Calls Out David Benavidez

VIDEO: Jesse Hart Calls Out David Benavidez

David Benavidez to Fight for Interim WBC Super Middleweight Championship Next

With current Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion Canelo Alvarez now confirmed to be facing WBC Cruiserweight Champion Ilunga Makabu in his next bout, Sampson Lewkowicz, promoter of undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez, has received permission from the WBC Board for Benavidez to fight for their Interim Championship in his next bout.

Today at their 59th annual world convention in Mexico City, Alvarez’s trainer Eddy Reynoso petitioned the WBC to allow the future hall-of-famer to challenge Makabu for a chance at another world title in an amazing fifth weight division. Reynoso’s request was granted unanimously.

In response, Lewkowicz immediately requested that Benavidez (25-0, 22 KOs), whom many considered at the top of the list of potential next Canelo opponents, be given a chance to hold their world championship for the third time in his undefeated career. The request was also granted.

An opponent for Benavidez’s attempt at a third WBC belt will be announced shortly.
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

David Benavidez calls out Canelo after impressive TKO victory in homecoming

By Norm Frauenheim (Ringside) –

PHOENIX – There was a crowd of about 8,000. And there was an audience of one.

David Benavidez hopes he heard them.

All along, the Benavidez campaign has been about Canelo Alvarez. He’s been chasing Canelo for a couple of years. On Saturday, he delivered another performance in a homecoming that keeps him squarely in the mix for a shot at the undisputed super-middleweight champion.

Benavidez (25-0, 25 KOs) beat a tough Kyrone Davis (16-3-1, 6 KOs), forcing Davis’ corner to throw in the towel early in the seventh round at The Footprint Center.

“I think everybody wants to see me fight Canelo, right? Benavidez said in the middle of the ring moments after his victory.

The crowd roared yes. A Showtime audience heard it. Maybe, Canelo did too. The echoes will be there weeks from now as Canelo thinks about who’s next. There’s plenty of talk about a Benavidez-Canelo showdown on May 7. It’s a perfect match – Benavidez, a Mexican-American against Canelo, a Mexican — for the Cinco de Mayo celebration.

But Canelo, deliberate in the ring and out of it, said he won’t be in a rush to make a decision. He has the belts. He has the pay-per-view numbers. He has options aplenty. He has the time. He’s has it all.

For now, Benavidez can only wait. That won’t be easy.

“I don’t care what his assessment of my fight is,’’ Benavidez said of Canelo. “But they keep putting these contenders in front of me.

“…They need to give me the opportunity. I’ll go through anybody.’’

At 24, Benavidez is still a maturing fighter with poise and power. He’s anxious to test that poise, use the power against the biggest name in the game.

Both were evident, again and again, through six rounds against Davis, who took huge shots from a relentless assault from the taller Benavidez.

Benavidez is known for throwing a so-called volume of punches. But there was no silencing Davis, a Terence Crawford sparring partner who agreed to the fight just two weeks before opening bell. In the end, Davis trainer Stephen Edwards stepped in with a timely decision. It was time to end it. He did so at 47 seconds of the round

“David Benavidez is a tremendous fighter,’’ Edwards said. “He’s a monster.

“We fought. We tried to win. We didn’t come here to lay down. I think a lot people through that was the case. But I love this kid. I didn’t want to see him get hurt.’’

Seconds after the towel landed in the center of the ring, Benavidez showed his appreciation for Davis. He hugged him.

“He thanked me, thanked me for being a warrior,’’ Davis said.

David Benavidez’ victory helped his family and his fans forget about brother Jose Benavidez Jr.’s debatable majority draw with Argentine Francisco Torres (17-3-1, 5 KOs) in 10-round fight contracted to be at 159 pounds. Two judges scored it 95-95 each. One judged scored it 96-94 for Jose, who was fighting for the first time in three years. 15 Rounds scored it 96-94 for Torres.

“I don’t know how I got a draw,’’ Jose Jr. (27-2, 18 KOs) said. “We can run it back. I beat him. I thought I beat him. He kept running. He didn’t want to stay in the pocket. I can’t do anything about the judges’ decisions. I felt good. He just kept holding. I beat him every round. What can I do?

“I beat him. I beat him. He wasn’t hitting me hard. He just kept holding.’’

But the crowd seems to think otherwise. It booed Jose Benavidez. It cheered Torres.

In the end, however, there were only cheers.

For both David Benavidez and Davis.

Best of the Undercard

Junior-middleweight Elijah Garcia (9-0, 8 KOs) of nearby Glendale AZ, opened the show, flashing some prospect possibilities with a succession of power shots for a fifth-round TKO of Todd Manuel (2-91-1, 6 KOs) of Rayne, LA.

The Rest

Micky Scala (3-0, 1 KO), a Mesa AZ junior-middleweight who recently signed with Floyd Mayweather, endured some head-rocking shots, countered and in the end won a four-round unanimous decision over Martez Jackson (5-6-3, 2 KOs) of Macon GA.

Jesus Ibarra (12-0, 6 KOs), a junior-welterweight from Mesa AZ, calls himself Monsoon. He showed why in the second, storming Mexican Hector (12-14-2, 6 KOs) for a TKO victory at 2:05 of the round.

Farid Ngoga (12-0, 11 KOs), a junior-middleweight from Glendale AZ, employed a mix of speed and precision for a unanimous decision over Isaac Freeman (3-10-2, 3 KOs) of Los Angeles.

Junior-lightweight Jonathan Fierro (12-0, 11 KOs) didn’t waste any time. It took him 29 seconds to blow out fellow Mexican Victor Ruiz (13-12, 11 KOs). Officially it was a technical knockout. Nothing technical about it.

Phoenix featherweight Keenan Carbajal (23-2-1, 15 KOs) was too big for an overmatched Josean Bonilla (12-7-2, 9 KOs), who was bloodied and beaten after three rounds. The referee ended it after just two second of the fourth.

Benavidez-Davis Weigh-in: Benavidez one pound heavier than division limit

By Norm Frauenheim–

PHOENIX – It was a pound that won’t matter Saturday, but it left questions that could have a heavy influence on David Benavidez’ career beyond his date against Kyrone Davis.

Benavidez came in at 169 pounds Friday, one more than the super-middleweight limit at the formal weigh-in at an outdoor pavilion in front of the Footprint Center, the Suns home arena in downtown Phoenix.

There were no immediate consequences. No penalty. The Showtime-televised bout, a scheduled 10-rounder, is contracted for 168, plus or minus a pound. Davis, a Terence Crawford sparring partner who agreed to the fight two weeks ago, was at 167.75.

“No title involved,’’ Benavidez promoter Sampson Lewkowicz. “No problem.’’

One-hundred-and-sixty-eight pounds – not an ounce more – is the weight at which Benavidez hopes to fight Canelo Alvarez, who won all of the significant pieces to the super-middleweight title last week in an 11th-round stoppage of Caleb Plant in Las Vegas.

Benavidez’ fight Saturday in his first Phoenix homecoming in more than six years has been called an audition. A stepping-stone.

“Sometimes, with stepping-stones, you trip,’’ Davis (16-2-1, 6 KOs) said.

Benavidez didn’t exactly trip when he stepped on and then off the scale. But he did raise some alarms. Although unbeaten, Benavidez (24-0, 21 KOs) has lost the World Boxing Council’s version of the super-middleweight title twice, first for testing positive for cocaine in 2018 and then last August for failing to make weight.

Benavidez was 2.8 pounds over the limit the day before a scheduled title defense against Roamer Alexis Angulo. The next day – August 15, he blew out Angulo, scoring a 10^th-round stoppage at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. But the WBC belt had already been stripped from him. He’s been chasing it — and Canelo — ever since.

Then, he blamed the scale fail on Pandemic protocol that had closed gyms and saunas. Then, Benavidez said he was sure he could still make the weight. He turns 25 on Dec. 17. He’s young man still growing into his prime. He’s going to grow out of the super-middleweight division. The question is when.

“Maybe two more fights,’’ his father and trainer Jose Benavidez Sr. said earlier this week.

Benavidez hopes for only one against Canelo, perhaps on May 7 in celebration of next year’s annual Cinco de Mayo holiday. Benavidez, a Mexican-American, against Canelo, a Mexican, looks like a perfect fit. But only if Benavidez can still be perfect on the scale, which means 168 and not an ounce more.

Nobody expects Canelo to wait around. He’s boxing biggest draw. He has a banquet full of options, one that grew this week with news that Ryota Murata will fight old Canelo rival Gennadiy Golovkin in Japan Dec. 29 in a middleweight bout.

If the winner agrees to move to 168, Canelo could choose to settle his differences with Golovkin with a third fight or expand his brand to Asia with a fight against Murata in Japan.

If not that, a jump to light-heavyweight is a possibility. So, too, is Jermall Charlo, an unbeaten WBC champ at middleweight who Canelo mentioned last Saturday after his crushing victory over Plant.

For now, at least, Benavidez can only wait. And make weight.

In another Showtime bout Saturday, Benavidez’ older brother, Jose, comes back after nearly more than three years against Argentine Francisco Torres. In a bout contracted to be at 159 pounds, Jose Benavidez Jr., (27-1, 18 KOs) a former welterweight, was at 158.75 pounds. Torres (17-3, 5 KOs) was at 157.50.

The Showtime telecast is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m., ET/6 p.m. PT. In Arizona (Mountain time), the non-televised part of the card is scheduled to begin at 4:40 p.m.

VIDEO: Benavidez vs. Davis: Official Weigh-In | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ VS. KYRONE DAVIS FINAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR SATURDAY’S BENAVÍDEZ BROTHERS DOUBLEHEADER ON SHOWTIME®

Super Middleweight Main Event Bout – 10 Rounds

David Benavídez* – 169 lbs.

Kyrone Davis – 167 ¾ lbs.

*Plus one-pound allowance for non-title bout

Referee: Wes Melton; Judges: Dennis O’Connell (Ariz.), Rubin “Rocky” Taylor (Ariz.), Chris Wilson (Ariz.)

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Jose Benavídez, Jr.* – 158 ¾ lbs.

Emanuel Torres* – 157 ½ lbs.

*Contracted maximum weight is 159 lbs.

Referee: Chris Flores; Judges: Dennis O’Connell (Ariz.), Rubin “Rocky” Taylor (Ariz.), Chris Wilson (Ariz.)

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. DAVIS

Benavidez vs. Davis will see unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez square off against super middleweight contender Kyrone Davis in a super middleweight title eliminator as Benavídez returns to his hometown of Phoenix for the first time in six years in the SHOWTIME main event on Saturday, November 13 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center – home of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature the much-awaited return of longtime contender José Benavídez, the older brother of David Benavídez, facing Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres in a 10-round super welterweight bout.

VIDEO: Benavidez vs. Davis: Final Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ VS. KYRONE DAVIS FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

PHOENIX – November 11, 2021 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and super middleweight contender Kyrone Davis went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they meet in the main event this Saturday, November 13 live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center in Phoenix.

Also featured at Thursday’s press conference was David’s older brother and longtime contender José Benavídez, along with Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres, before they meet in the 10-round co-main event on the telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The Benavídez brothers have their sights set on impressing their hometown fans in long-awaited homecoming bouts Saturday night, which will mark their first time entering the ring in Phoenix since 2015.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Footprint Center:

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ

“I’ve had a tremendous training camp this time around. Hats off to Kyrone Davis for stepping up to the plate and taking this fight. I’m on a knockout streak and I’m keeping it going Saturday night. The fans want to see knockouts and that’s what I want to give them.

“I’m excited to have fans back in attendance, after my last couple of fights took place in the bubble. The energy is going to be crazy. I can’t wait to get in there.

“We went right back into training camp after Davis stepped in as the replacement. I’m just happy the date was still salvaged. I’ve trained with multiple sparring partners in the gym, so I’m used to adapting to different styles. We’ll adapt to what he brings on Saturday.

“I’ve had a lot of support from the people here and it’s been amazing. Last time I was here, it was on my brother’s undercard. I’m ecstatic to be back fighting in front of a crowd. I can’t wait to feel the energy from the people.

“Once opponents feel my pressure, they realize it’s a whole different type of power. I want to see how he’s going to react to the power, combinations and speed. I’m going to keep doing what I do best and have fun.

“I’m not thinking about Canelo. I’m just thinking about Kyrone Davis. I’m excited to give my fans a good show. I worked extremely hard for this fight and trained like it was for a world title. I’m ready for whoever they want to give me to fight next.

“I’m always going to try to knock my opponent out. Not just Kyrone, but everyone who comes after him. I’m a warrior and I’m going to give the fans a war. It’s going to be a great night for me and my brother.

“My brother is still my role model. I still look up to him a lot. When we’re sparring, we try to take each other’s heads off and we might go days without talking, because it gets so serious. But he’s providing motivation for me every day. Especially the way that he came back from his injury.

“Kyrone Davis is a live dog. He knows what he’s up against. I’ve had a tremendous training camp and I’m going to make this a fun fight. We’re not scared of each other, and that makes it a great fight.

“It means the world to our whole family to be here in this position. I spent most of my childhood at Central Boxing Gym. The first mural out there was of my brother and I said that I wanted to be up there next. It’s really motivating knowing that Phoenix has our backs.”

KYRONE DAVIS

“Sometimes with stepping-stones, you trip. We’ve seen it happen plenty of times. My job is to make sure Saturday night isn’t his night. I’m looking to have a good time and put my all into it.

“I’ve been doing this my whole life. Stepping up on two weeks’ notice is nothing for me. A guy trying to cheat is disrespectful to the sport. It’s my duty to the sport to step in

“This is going to be a world class fight. I’m coming to fight and I’m coming to win.

“I showed that I can fight on this level against Anthony Dirrell. That performance put me in position to get this fight. I’m looking to put on a show. We’re going to have a good time.

“All good things must come to an end. His knockout streak is cool, but who you fight matters. I’m nicknamed ‘Shut It Down’, not lay down. He’s supposed to want to put on a great show, but I’m looking to do what I have to do to win.

“I’m always ready. When they call me and tell me it’s time to fight, I’m ready to go. I’ve had some experience taking fights on short notice. Every time we go through something, we take it and apply it to everything we do going forward.

“To see my name in the big lights, is a gratifying feeling. But it’s not just great to be here, I want to show what I can do at this level.

“I’m a smart fighter and my style changes depending on my opponent. We have a game plan and I’m going to follow it.

“I’ve never lost over 160 pounds. All of my losses were from shrinking down to 154 pounds. I’m feeling great at this weight and I’m ready for any way that this fight goes. I’m mentally and physically prepared.

“I can guarantee a great fight and that I’m going to win.”

JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ

“I’ve had a great training camp. I’ve been out for a few years, but I never stopped loving boxing. If anything, I love it more. I’m coming with bombs Saturday. I’m hungry and I’m ready to eat.

“I learned a lot from my last fight. I feel like I’m a different animal now. When I say I’m going to do something, I do it. He better not run on Saturday. I’m coming to break his ribs with body shots.

“I don’t care how busy he’s been. He’s never seen anyone with power like mine. You better be ready for Saturday night.

“He’s a bum just like the bums that he’s fought. I’m back to take this clown out and show everyone that I’m going to be the next 154-pound world champion.

“I’ve always loved boxing. Ever since I was young. Now having my own children, I’m even more motivated than ever. I’m so grateful to my whole family for all their support throughout these long training camps. I’m happy where I’m at.

“We’ve had a long road and I’m just thankful to everyone who’s supported us. It’s been six years since we fought at home, but I love it here. We’ve worked hard at this since we were little kids. We’ve come so far and I’m just trying to keep learning new things every day.

“My brother and I push each other to be on top. We’re the best sparring partners either of us could ask for. We don’t believe in a rivalry, we just want to push each other to be the best that we can.”

FRANCISCO EMANUEL TORRES

“I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m looking forward to Saturday night. This is the biggest fight of my life. I can’t let it pass me by. This is the kind of stage I dreamed of ever since I was a little kid. I’m going to make the most of it.

“You can say whatever you want up here on a stage. Maybe his prediction of a knockout will be true, but he still has to go in the ring and face me. We’ll all find out Saturday night.

“I prepared really hard for this fight and I’m ready to counter anything he can throw my way. You can bet on that.

“I don’t care that Jose is fighting in front of his fans. I’ve been an underdog before and I’m comfortable in that role.

“I don’t care about what he says. I’m just focused on doing what I have to do.”

#

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. DAVIS
Benavidez vs. Davis will see unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez square off against super middleweight contender Kyrone Davis in a super middleweight title eliminator as Benavídez returns to his hometown of Phoenix for the first time in six years in the SHOWTIME main event on Saturday, November 13 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center – home of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature the much-awaited return of longtime contender José Benavídez, the older brother of David Benavídez, facing Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres in a 10-round super welterweight bout.

QUOTES : PHOENIX NATIVE DAVID BENAVÍDEZ RECEIVES PROCLAMATION FROM OFFICE OF MAYOR KATE GALLEGO DECLARING NOVEMBER 13 “DAVID BENAVÍDEZ DAY” IN HIS HOMETOWN – Plus Benavidez Brothers Media Workout

PHOENIX (November 10, 2021) – Unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez received a proclamation from Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego at his media workout Wednesday, as the Mayor’s office declared this Saturday, November 13 “David Benavídez Day” in his hometown. The 24-year-old Benavidez will take on contender Kyrone Davis this Saturday night live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center in Phoenix.

Benavídez was joined by his older brother José Benavídez, who faces Francisco Emanuel Torres in Saturday’s co-main event, and his father and trainer Jose Benavídez Sr., at Wednesday’s event at Central Boxing Gym.

The event also featured the unveiling of a mural of the Benavídez family outside of the boxing gym in honor of the city’s boxing stars. The Benavídez family were presented the proclamation by Mary Rose Wilcox, the former Chairperson of the Arizona Boxing Commission. Other dignitaries in attendance included Arizona State Representative Cesar Chavez and City of Phoenix Councilperson Laura Pastor.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ

“This gym just reminds me of my childhood. All I did from age six to fifteen was train. All of my memories are in boxing. I learned how to be a man because of this place.

“I was born and raised in Phoenix and the fact that I can come back to my hometown and be recognized like this just means the world to me.

“I’ve worked extremely hard for this moment and it’s been a long time coming. I’ve been a professional for almost eight years now. I’ve been putting in work for a long time and I’m excited for the future. A lot of people came out to support us today and it means so much to me. I’m doing it for all of them.

“I’m excited for my brother to come back. His punching power looks good and most importantly, he’s hungry to be back. He’s excited to fight in front of our fans. Having him back in the mix is extra motivation for me.

“I know Kyrone Davis did well in his fight against Anthony Dirrell, and although he doesn’t have much knockout power, he’s never been stopped himself. So I’d like to be the first one to accomplish that. He’s a boxer and counter puncher and he’s definitely a live dog.

“I feel like I’m going to be able to stay at super middleweight for a while. We’re not really struggling to make weight more than anyone else. As long as we have a good routine, I’ll be able to keep making it for a couple more years.”

JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ

“It means a lot to have the support of my city and it motivates me even more. All the hard work we’ve put in since we were kids is paying off. Seeing this mural gives me even more motivation to keep working toward becoming world champion.

“It feels good to have our whole family honored here. We have a lot of support, but we’re still humble people. I’ve put my life into boxing and I’m going to keep doing that until the day I retire.

“Me and my brother used to come train in this gym every day and we’ve come a long way. We’re both going to keep rising. I want to thank everyone for supporting Team Benavídez. I can’t wait for Saturday night to get in the ring in front of all our people here.

“I have to thank all my fans and everyone who has been supporting me throughout the years. It’s going to be fireworks on Saturday night. I’m coming with a bang and I’m stopping everyone at 154-pounds.”

JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ SR., David and José’s Father and Trainer

“It hasn’t been easy, but I’m super proud of what David and Jose have been able to accomplish. I’m very thankful to everyone who is out here supporting us. It’s taken a lot of hard work. We’re here to make history and we’re going to continue to keep working hard.

“Jose was always the motivation for David. That was his idol. He just wanted to be next to him, and look where we are now. This Saturday is going to be super special for us.

“We’re fighting in front of our hometown and that has a lot of value for us. Words can’t even describe how we feel. It’s very emotional for me.

“This is a very emotional and motivational experience. It’s like a dream come true. I don’t want to wake up. I never dreamed of them becoming champions, but look where we’re at. Hard work pays off.”

MARY ROSE WILCOX, Former Chairperson of the Arizona Boxing Commission

“This is a great event for the community. Phoenix loves boxing and they love the Benavídez family. I’m so happy that we were able to help highlight them and help get Arizona back into boxing ahead of this big show Saturday night.”

#

Super Lightweight Contenders Rock Myrthil and Ladarius Miller Clash in Showdown Highlighting Non-Televised Undercard This Saturday, November 13 in a Premier Boxing Champions Event from Footprint Center in Phoenix

PHOENIX (November 8, 2021) – Mayweather Promotions stablemates square off as undefeated “Prince” Rock Myrthil and contender Ladarius “Memphis” Miller meet in an eight-round super lightweight battle topping the non-televised undercard lineup on Saturday, November 13 at Footprint Center in Phoenix in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The card is headlined by unbeaten, two-time Super Middleweight World Champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez against top contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in a telecast that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Fighting out of Los Angeles, California, the 29-year-old Myrthil (17-0, 13 KOs) discovered boxing at age 18, after his family relocated from Haiti to the United States. Following a stellar amateur career, Myrthil made his pro debut in January 2017 with a second-round TKO over Allan Varela in Tijuana, Mexico. In September 2019, he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Steele in Las Vegas. The performance caught the eye of Floyd Mayweather, who sat ringside for that bout and ultimately signed Myrthil to his Mayweather Promotions outfit. Most recently, Myrthil outpointed Johnny Rodriguez over eight rounds in February 2020.

Originally from Memphis, Miller (21-2, 6 KOs) now resides in Las Vegas and also fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable. The 28-year-old veteran’s list of accomplishments includes wins over former champions Jamel Herring and Jezreel Corrales. Miller will look to get back on track after his 12-fight win streak was snapped in his most recent bout, a points loss to unbeaten contender Michel Rivera in October 2020.

Non-televised undercard action will also feature undefeated, 18-year-old prospect Elijah Garcia (8-0, 7 KOs) taking on Todd Manuel (20-18-1, 6 KOs) in six-rounds of super welterweight action, Guadalajara, Mexico’s Jonathan Fierro (11-0, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight bout, Arizona native Jesus Ibarra (11-0, 5 KOs) facing Hector Suarez (12-13-2, 6 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight clash, former amateur standout Micky Scala (2-0, 1 KO) versus Martez Jackson (5-5-3, 2 KOs) in a four-round super welterweight match, Congo’s Farid Ngoga (4-0, 4 KOs) taking on Isaac Freeman (3-9-2, 3 KOs) in a four-round super welterweight duel, and Phoenix resident Keenan Carbajal (22-2-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight fight.

#

Waiting Day: Benavidez gets new opponent after Uzcategui tests positive

By Norm Frauenheim–

David Benavidez, unbeaten and lately unlucky, waits more than wins these days.

He waited to recover from COVID. He waited to regain a shot at a super-middleweight title. He’s waited on Canelo Alvarez. And waited to go home.

The wait continued Thursday. The good news: It didn’t last long.

The day broke with a report that Benavidez’ homecoming foe, Jose Uzcategui, had been pulled from his Nov. 13 date in Phoenix because of a positive test for a banned performance enhancer.

About six hours later, the homecoming — Benavidez’ first fight in Phoenix in more than six years – was still on with an announcement from PBC (Premier Boxing Champions) and Showtime that a late stand-in had been found.

His name: Kyrone Davis (16-2-1, 6 KOs), a Wilmington, Delaware fighter who is 3-1-1 over his last five. The draw on Feb. 27 in Los Angeles was with Anthony Dirrell, whom Benavidez stopped in a ninth-round blowout in September 2019.

The potential bad news: The quick switch in opponents 17 days before opening bell means Benavidez won’t be fighting a World Boxing Council (WBC) title eliminator. The winner would have gained a mandatory chance at the acronym’s version of the belt, which Canelo will defend Nov. 6 against Caleb Plant in Las Vegas.

It was a scheduled 12-rounder against Uzcategui, a former 168-pound belt holder in a bout that had already been postponed. It was supposed to happen August 28 but was rescheduled after Benavidez caught COVID.

Against Davis, it’s a scheduled 10-rounder at Footprint Center at the Suns home arena in downtown Phoenix.

Will it matter? Maybe not. Benavidez was expected to beat Uzcategui. He was a 9-to-1 favorite. He is expected to beat Davis by odds so one-sided that they might never be posted.

Uzcategui or Davis, Benavidez is the overwhelming choice against either, a lot like Canelo versus Plant at T-Mobile Arena. Canelo is an 8-to-1 favorite.

With an eliminator victory for the so-called mandatory, Benavidez might have gained some trash-talk leverage in the media about securing a deal for fight with Canelo fight.

But Canelo has the final say-so. It’s a prerogative that comes with his documented status as boxing’s biggest draw. If he takes the final piece in the 168-pound puzzle – the International Boxing Federation’s belt – from Plant, he might choose to move up the scale to light heavyweight.

However, he didn’t shut the door on the possibility of a fight with Benavidez. Before news of Uzcategui’s positive test, Canelo was asked what – who – was next during a Zoom session Wednesday for his bout with Plant. Would he fight the winner of Benavidez-Uzcatequi winner?

“Right now, I am 100-percent focused on this fight,’’ Canelo said. “Then we will see. If it’s right, no problem.’’

The calendar suggests an answer. Canelo, a Mexican, is fighting one Saturday and Benavidez, a Mexican-American, is fighting the next Saturday, both on Showtime.

That might be mere coincidence. But it doesn’t look like it. Canelo-Benavidez looks to be a perfect fit for May 7, two days after the Cinco de Mayo celebration next year.

Benavidez’ best argument for a fight with Canelo is in his performance. To wit: Do to Davis what he had promised to do Uzcategui.

“I’m going to go in there and do what I always do,’’ Benavidez said during a zoom session with reporters last week. “I’m always looking for a spectacular knockout. That’s just the way I train. I put my heart and soul into camp. No matter what fight might be on the horizon, it doesn’t change the way I prepare.

“…I’m the best super-middleweight in the, and I just have to show everybody why.’’

That’s one way to end all that waiting.

UNBEATEN TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION DAVID BENAVÍDEZ TO FACE SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER KYRONE DAVIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT FROMFOOTPRINT CENTER IN PHOENIX

PHOENIX (October 28, 2021) – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez will make his homecoming return to Phoenix, Ariz. against 168-pound contender Kyrone Davis in a 10-round match that headlines live on SHOWTIME Saturday, November 13 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center.

Benavídez was originally scheduled to face former world champion Jose Uzcátegui, who was forced to withdraw due to a failed pre-fight drug test.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature the much-awaited return of longtime contender José Benavídez, the older brother of David Benavídez, facing Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Still just 24-years-old, Benavídez (24-0, 21 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out his last four opponents, including a September 2019 knockout of two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. Benavídez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Representing his native Phoenix, and returning to fight there for the first time since 2015 on November 13, Benavídez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first title opportunity.

A native of Monmouth, N.J., Davis (16-2-1, 6 KO) most recently won an exciting September clash against Martez McGregor, triumphing by decision after eight action-packed rounds. Davis had previously been impressive against the toughest test of his career, as he fought two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell to a split-draw in February. It was the 26-year-old’s debut at super middleweight, after beginning his career at middleweight. Davis had won five of his six previous outings heading into the Dirrell clash. He is trained by renowned coach Stephen Edwards in Philadelphia, Pa. alongside former unified world champion Julian Williams.

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.