David Benavidez has no interest in super middleweight showdown with Terence Crawford: 'I'm done at 168'

David Benavidez, the reigning WBC light heavyweight champion, has definitively closed the door on a return to the super middleweight division, dismissing any potential showdown with newly crowned undisputed champion Terence Crawford. Benavidez’s decision comes after years of pursuing a fight with Saul "Canelo" Alvarez at 168 pounds, a matchup that ultimately never materialized. With Alvarez now sidelined due to elbow surgery following his defeat to Crawford, the prospect of Benavidez challenging for Crawford’s newly acquired titles at super middleweight had been floated, but the Phoenix native has emphatically rejected the notion.

"I’m done with [super middleweight]," Benavidez told Fight Hub TV. "I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Crawford. He put on a hell of a performance. He’s up there on the Mount Rushmore of the greatest fighters of all time. Let Crawford do his thing, bro. At the end of the day, I have no interest in fighting Crawford. I have no interest in going down to 168. Yeah, it would be dope winning all the titles, but I’m way past that at 168. I wouldn’t even go down to 168 for Canelo. I’m just being real with you. I’m not saying I’m scared of Crawford or whatever. Crawford’s the man at 168. That’s his weight class. I’m done at 168. They can throw whatever money they want at me. My job is not only to get the money. My job is to give myself the best chance to win and to give myself the best chance of looking good."

Benavidez’s stance underscores a shift in priorities, focusing on optimizing his performance and chances of victory at light heavyweight rather than pursuing potentially lucrative but physically taxing ventures at a lower weight class.

The decision to move up to light heavyweight was cemented after years of frustration in the super middleweight division. Benavidez twice held the WBC super middleweight title, first defeating Ronald Gavril in September 2017 to claim the vacant belt. He then regained the title in September 2019 with a victory over Anthony Dirrell. However, both reigns were marred by issues outside the ring. The first title was stripped in 2018 after Benavidez tested positive for cocaine in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) test. The second reign ended in August 2020 when he failed to make weight for his title defense against Roamer Alexis Angulo.

Despite these setbacks, Benavidez remained a formidable force at 168 pounds. He secured the interim WBC super middleweight title, successfully defending it twice while angling for a shot at Alvarez, who held the undisputed championship. However, the anticipated clash with Alvarez never materialized, prompting Benavidez to seek opportunities in the light heavyweight division.

His move to 175 pounds was driven by the belief that he could secure a shot at the winner of the undisputed title rivalry between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. Benavidez captured the WBC interim light heavyweight title by defeating Oleksandr Gvozdyk. He further solidified his position by defeating David Morrell for the WBA interim title, another fighter who had grown disillusioned with the lack of opportunities at super middleweight due to Alvarez’s dominance.

Following Bivol’s victory over Beterbiev in their rematch, which crowned him the undisputed light heavyweight champion, Bivol vacated the WBC title. This prompted the WBC to elevate Benavidez from interim champion to full world champion.

Benavidez is scheduled to defend his WBC light heavyweight title against Anthony Yarde on November 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This bout represents a significant step in establishing his dominance in the 175-pound division.

Despite his focus on light heavyweight, Benavidez has acknowledged a tinge of regret at not being the one to dethrone Alvarez. "I kinda felt like that could’ve been me," Benavidez said. "That was my moment. If I would’ve got in there, I know I would’ve beat him. … That’s why it didn’t happen, because Canelo knows that would’ve happened."

Benavidez’s career trajectory reflects a fighter prioritizing his health and performance over the allure of potentially lucrative matchups. His decision to remain at light heavyweight is a strategic move aimed at maximizing his chances of success in a division where he believes he can thrive.

Terence Crawford’s victory over Canelo Alvarez was a watershed moment, not only for Crawford’s career but also for the super middleweight division. Crawford’s dominance in the fight, capturing all four major world titles, has opened up a new chapter in the weight class. However, with Benavidez ruling out a potential clash, Crawford’s future opponents at 168 pounds remain uncertain.

Crawford’s options could include a rematch with Alvarez, fights against other top-rated super middleweights, or even a move up in weight to light heavyweight. The landscape of the super middleweight division is currently in flux, with several fighters vying for an opportunity to challenge Crawford’s reign.

For Benavidez, the focus remains firmly on light heavyweight. His upcoming fight against Yarde is a crucial test of his credentials in the division. Yarde, a seasoned contender with a reputation for toughness and power, represents a significant challenge for Benavidez. A victory over Yarde would solidify Benavidez’s position as one of the top light heavyweights in the world and open the door for potential future matchups against other elite fighters in the division.

The light heavyweight division is currently teeming with talent, including fighters like Artur Beterbiev, Dmitry Bivol, and other rising stars. Benavidez’s presence in the division adds another layer of intrigue and competition. His aggressive style and knockout power make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the weight class.

Benavidez’s decision to prioritize his well-being and career trajectory is a testament to his maturity as a fighter. He has learned from past mistakes and is now focused on making the most of his talent and potential. His journey from a young, promising fighter with occasional setbacks to a seasoned world champion is an inspiring story.

As Benavidez prepares for his upcoming title defense against Yarde, he remains committed to his goal of becoming the undisputed light heavyweight champion. His decision to stay at 175 pounds is a clear indication of his confidence in his ability to achieve that goal. While a fight against Crawford would undoubtedly be a major event, Benavidez is focused on his own path and his own legacy.

The boxing world will be watching closely to see what Benavidez and Crawford achieve in their respective divisions. Both fighters are among the most talented and exciting athletes in the sport, and their careers are sure to provide plenty of drama and excitement in the years to come. The hypothetical matchup between them may not be happening anytime soon, but their individual journeys will continue to captivate fans around the world.