David Benavidez will beat Dmitry Bivol in a potential light-heavyweight clash, according to Oscar De La Hoya. The former champion turned promoter backs 'The Monster' to come out on top against the newly crowned undisputed king of the division.
Bivol achieved his career-long dream in June when he outpointed Artur Beterbiev to unify all four belts at 175 lbs. The fight came seven months after Beterbiev handed Bivol his first professional loss, setting their rivalry at one win apiece. A rubber match will likely happen before the year is out.
Meanwhile, Benavidez picked up the WBC strap that Bivol vacated in April to pursue that third fight with Beterbiev. The 28-year-old from Phoenix remains unbeaten and is set for his first defense of the crown against Callum Smith or Anthony Yarde.
De La Hoya sees Benavidez as the winner should the two champions meet. He told Fight Hub TV:
"That's a tough one. I would go with Benavidez because he's more active and throws more punches and has better footwork than Beterbiev. He's smarter up there and knows how to think and how to adjust. I would favour Benavidez."
Bivol's win over Beterbiev cemented his place at the top of the division, but Benavidez will look to make a statement in his first WBC defense and push for the undisputed fight. The light-heavyweight division continues to deliver big fights for fans.
