David Benavidez once again turned the spotlight on the boxing world by referring directly to Terence Crawford, whom he accused of avoiding facing him. The current WBC champion at 175 pounds said that if the fight were to take place, the physical difference between the two would be decisive. “I would definitely use my size, my reach and weight to my advantage,” Benavidez said in an interview.
Although he admitted Crawford’s talent, Benavidez sent a message that mixes respect with provocation: “Crawford is a smart fighter … luckily I won’t be fighting him,” he said sarcastically. The Mexican Monster’s words seem designed to publicly pressure the undisputed champion and reignite the debate about a possible clash between the two.
Weight difference between David Benavidez and Terence Crawford
Benavidez has recently competed at 175 pounds, but has even come close to 200 in previous camps. Crawford, on the other hand, has fought almost his entire career in lower weight classes, with 168 pounds (super middleweight) being his most recent limit. “Soon I’m back to 168 pounds,” Benavidez said, hinting that he is willing to adjust if the American accepts the challenge.
Despite that willingness, Crawford’s team has shown no interest. His trainer, Brian “BoMac” McIntyre, claimed that he does not have in mind a fight against Benavidez. Sources close to the situation claim that only a multi-million dollar offer could make that fight a reality.
“He would surrender like the others”: the Mexican Monster’s warning to Crawford
During a talk on the Pound 4 Pound podcast, Benavidez was even more blunt and claimed that Crawford could not withstand his pressure: “Against my pressure, he would give up like the others,” he said. The statement was shocking, especially considering that Terence has just beaten Canelo Alvarez and become undisputed at 168 pounds.
Benavidez’s father, Jose Benavidez Sr., also fueled the controversy: “Crawford would only last three or four rounds with David,” he said in an interview with the Diario de NY. These statements not only show confidence in Benavidez’s camp, but also a clear intention to provoke the American champion.
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