Shawn Porter, a web host, has expressed his skepticism about the possibility of a fight between Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez ever happening. According to Porter, Benavidez’s return to the super middleweight division may be in vain, as Canelo is unlikely to give him the money fight he desires. Even after a successful debut at 175, Benavidez expressed his intention to move back down to 168 with the hope of facing Canelo. However, Porter believes that Canelo will not be interested in facing Benavidez, given the latter’s formidable stature as a true light heavyweight.
If Benavidez were to shed weight to meet Canelo outside of his natural weight class, it is highly probable that Canelo would dominate the fight. Nevertheless, the logistics of the matchup seem unfavorable, with Canelo unlikely to engage in a bout that does not significantly add to his legacy. Despite Benavidez’s achievements in the ring, having secured victories over the likes of David Lemieux, Anthony Dirrell, and Caleb Plant, he has yet to establish himself as a major draw in the sport. This could be a significant deterrent for Canelo, who has the luxury of choosing his opponents based on the impact they would have on his career.
In contrast, Shawn Porter suggests that a bout between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford may be a more appealing option for the Mexican superstar. Porter alludes to Canelo’s acknowledgment that fighting Crawford would be a lucrative opportunity, especially if it aligns with the preferences of potential sponsors such as the Saudis. Unlike Benavidez, Crawford presents a less physically imposing challenge for Canelo, making the matchup more enticing from a strategic standpoint.
Porter contends that Canelo’s decision to avoid a clash with Benavidez reflects his right as a seasoned fighter to curate his legacy according to his own terms. While Benavidez’s reputation continues to grow within boxing circles, he has yet to capture the attention of the broader audience as evidenced by his underwhelming performance as a pay-per-view headliner. This lack of mainstream appeal may diminish the allure of a potential showdown with Canelo, who prioritizes fights that elevate his status as a global icon.
Using a metaphorical lens, Porter likens Benavidez to a highway exit that Canelo is likely to bypass in his journey towards solidifying his place in boxing history. Rather than perceiving Benavidez as a formidable adversary, Porter frames him as a fighter who may be out of his depth against Canelo. The decision of Benavidez to decline opportunities to face top-tier opponents like David Morrell suggests a lack of readiness for the challenges that come with elite-level competition.
Porter’s perspective underscores the notion that Canelo’s reluctance to engage with Benavidez is not rooted in fear but rather in a strategic calculation of risks and rewards. As Canelo approaches the latter stages of his career, his choice of opponents becomes increasingly pivotal in shaping his legacy. The prospect of a Canelo vs. Benavidez showdown may hold intrigue for hardcore fans of the sport, but from a broader perspective, it may not offer the transformative impact that Canelo seeks in his quest for greatness.