David Benavidez Steps Up to Cruiserweight in Bid for Legacy Against Ramirez David Benavidez has announced his intention to challenge unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez in a high-profile matchup on Saturday night, marking another bold move in his career. The 27-year-old Mexican, who previously competed at super-middleweight and light-heavyweight, has now transitioned to the cruiserweight division, aiming to solidify his legacy against Ramirez. Despite the physical demands of the weight shift, Benavidez remains committed to his long-term goal of returning to light-heavyweight to face Dmitry Bivol. Benavidez’s recent success in light-heavyweight includes victories over top contenders Oleksandr Gvozdyk and David Morrell, which earned him the WBC world title. He defended that title in November with a knockout win over Anthony Yarde, marking his first stoppage in the division. The win demonstrated his ability to adapt to the heavier weight class, though he has not yet faced a world champion in light-heavyweight. Speaking to Boxing News’ Oscar Pick, Benavidez expressed confidence in his ability to defeat Bivol, a man who has never been knocked down in his professional career. He cited their past sparring sessions as evidence of his dominance, recalling a session where he nearly dropped Bivol with a 10-punch combination in the fourth round. “For me, the hardest fight in the [175lb] division is [against] Bivol. He keeps his distance very well and has beaten everybody, but I know I can beat him,” Benavidez said. He emphasized his belief that a knockout is within reach, calling it the “biggest statement” he could make. Benavidez’s plan to return to light-heavyweight after the Ramirez fight is clear, though the timing of a potential Bivol matchup remains uncertain.#david_benavidez #gilberto_ramirez #boxing_news #anthony_yarde #oleksandr_gvozdyk
