Benavidez has fought his way to become the mandatory challenger for Canelo's titles. Yet, the Mexican champion doesn't seem interested. Canelo claims he doesn't need to take the fight, stating that all Benavidez brings to the table is "an extra 25 pounds of weight on fight night."
This stance has led to differing opinions among boxing experts. Former world champion Paulie Malignaggi believes Benavidez would have beaten Canelo two years ago. During a discussion on Pro Box TV, Malignaggi said:
"Benavidez, had he fought Canelo two years ago, would've beat him and then you have that star growing for the last two years. Instead you don't."
Tim Bradley, a former championship fighter turned analyst, disagreed strongly with Malignaggi's take. Bradley fired back:
"Paulie, you don't know for a fact he would've beat him. You don't know that for a fact. I think that Canelo beats Benavidez right now, but I don't think Canelo believes the he can."
Malignaggi didn't back down, responding to Bradley with, "You're out of your mind, dude."
The debate highlights the ongoing speculation about this potential matchup. Benavidez claims Canelo is holding the belts hostage, while Canelo maintains he has nothing to prove by taking the fight.
As the argument rages on, both fighters are moving in different directions. Benavidez has decided to move up in weight to pursue titles there. Meanwhile, Canelo is taking a different approach to satisfy his critics. He's scheduled to face Edgar Berlanga on September 14.
The disagreements between experts like Malignaggi and Bradley will likely continue until Canelo and Benavidez eventually meet in the ring. For now, fans can only speculate about what might happen if these two super-middleweights finally face off.