Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez has sparked debate by naming Artur Beterbiev as a bigger challenge than David Benavidez. The boxing world has been waiting for Canelo to pick his next opponent, with many hoping it'll be Benavidez.
Canelo vs Benavidez at 168 pounds is one of the most wanted fights in boxing. Both fighters have great records and are at the top of the sport. Their styles also match up well.
But things have changed recently. Benavidez moved up to light-heavyweight and beat Oleksandr Gvozdyk on points. This win might get him a shot at whoever wins between Beterbiev and Bivol.
Canelo has only lost twice in his career. One of those losses was to Dmitry Bivol in 2022. Bivol won easily on points when Canelo tried to take his WBA belt at 175 pounds.
Now, Canelo wants to fight Bivol again, but only if Bivol beats Beterbiev. He doesn't want to face Beterbiev if he wins.
In a recent interview with KO Artists Sports, Canelo was asked who's the bigger challenge: Benavidez or Beterbiev? He picked Beterbiev.
"Oh Beterbiev, yeah of course, He's a champion. He has something to offer me. He's strong, he's in another weight."
Canelo thinks Beterbiev is tougher because he's a champion, he's strong, and he's in a higher weight class.
Beterbiev and Bivol will fight on October 12 in Saudi Arabia. It's part of the Riyadh Season opening. The winner might end up facing Canelo next.
