David Benavidez is quickly becoming one of the biggest stars in boxing as the undefeated fighter has shown elite talent.
Recently promoted to become the WBC World Light Heavyweight champion, Benavidez has a perfect 30-0 record. With his last performance against David Morrell, the American showed he belongs at the top of the division.
Being upgraded to full champion means that Benavidez has now held world titles in two weight classes. However, in his first world title opportunity, he was in danger of losing out on the prize.
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David Benavidez was knocked down in split decision win for first world title fight
After winning the first 18 bouts of his career, a 20-year-old Benavidez was given his first world title opportunity in September 2017.
Fighting in Las Vegas, Benavidez would take on Romanian boxer Ronald Gavril (18-1). The two competed for the vacant WBC World Super Middleweight title, as Benavidez was a big favorite.
However, the fight would not go according to the bookmaker’s odds.
The fight was closely contested throughout 12 rounds, as the fight resulted in a split decision. However, the judges would have clear winners on either side.
Benavidez was the winner on two judges’ scorecards at 117-11 and 116-111. However, the third judge scored the bout 116-111 for Gavril.
One of the most notable points of the fight was in the final round, where a counter left hook would send Benavidez to the canvas. However, despite the knockdown, ‘The Monster’ was able to become champion.
David Benavidez and Roland Gavril’s rematch had a more conclusive ending
Due to the close nature of their first bout, Benavidez and Gavril would rematch in February 2018. The bout would see Benavidez compete as the defending champion.
However, the young champion would be able to put all doubt to rest in the rematch. Fighting in Las Vegas again, Benavidez had a clear win via unanimous decision.
Winning almost every round on each of the judge’s scorecards, Benavidez had retained his world title for the first time.
Benavidez would continue to compete at super middleweight until 2024 when he moved to light heavyweight. Defeating Oleksandr Gvozdyk, he claimed the WBC Interim World Light Heavyweight title.
He would hold the interim title until being upgraded to full champion in April 2025.
It is currently unclear as to who the champion may face next, however, Benavidez could be a potential opponent for Callum Smith, who is an interim champion of the weight class.