Canelo's Gripes: Why He's Annoyed With David Benavidez

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Benavidez's Past Controversies and Failed Drug Tests

Canelo's reservations about Benavidez are undeniably linked to the latter's past failures. These controversies have cast a long shadow over Benavidez's career and significantly impact Canelo's view of him as a legitimate challenger. Canelo, known for his clean record and commitment to anti-doping regulations, likely sees a stark contrast between his own professional conduct and Benavidez's past indiscretions.

• Specific Instances: Benavidez has twice tested positive for banned substances, resulting in suspensions that stalled his career momentum. These failed drug tests raise serious concerns about his commitment to clean boxing and adherence to sporting regulations.
• Reputation and Credibility: The impact of these controversies on Benavidez's reputation within the boxing community is undeniable. Many question his integrity and his ability to maintain the highest standards expected of a professional athlete at his level. This reputational damage undoubtedly plays a role in Canelo's hesitancy.
• Canelo's Clean Record: Canelo Álvarez boasts an impeccable record regarding drug testing and clean competition. This stark contrast further underscores the difference in their professional approaches and likely contributes to Canelo's skepticism.
• Canelo's Public Statements: While not directly accusing Benavidez, Canelo and his team have hinted at concerns regarding Benavidez's past, emphasizing the importance of clean competition and the integrity of the sport. These subtle digs only amplify the tension.

Benavidez's Aggressive Fighting Style and Perceived Threat

Beyond the controversies, Canelo likely views Benavidez's aggressive fighting style as a significant threat. This contrasts sharply with Canelo's more calculated and tactical approach. Benavidez's raw power and relentless pressure could potentially disrupt Canelo's carefully planned strategies.

• Aggressive Style vs. Calculated Approach: Benavidez is known for his aggressive, come-forward style, characterized by high-volume punching and a relentless pursuit of knockouts. This contrasts sharply with Canelo's more measured and tactical approach, relying on precision and counter-punching.
• Strategic Advantages and Disadvantages: Benavidez's aggression presents both advantages and disadvantages. While it could overwhelm Canelo, it also leaves him vulnerable to counterattacks. Canelo's precision and defensive skills could exploit Benavidez's aggressive tendencies.
• Knockout Power: Benavidez's impressive knockout power is a significant factor. His ability to end fights quickly poses a real threat to even the most skilled boxers, including Canelo. This inherent danger is a clear reason for Canelo’s caution.

The Business and Promotional Aspects of a Potential Fight

The business and promotional side of boxing plays a significant role in the Canelo-Benavidez stalemate. Negotiations between promoters, the fighters themselves, and television networks are complex and often involve significant financial hurdles and conflicting interests.

• Financial Implications: A Canelo-Benavidez fight would be a lucrative event, generating significant revenue through pay-per-view sales and sponsorships. The division of this revenue is a major point of contention.
• Promotional Interests: Different promoters represent Canelo and Benavidez, creating potential conflicts of interest and complicating the process of arranging a fight. These competing interests add another layer of complexity.
• Statements from Camps: Public statements from both camps have hinted at disagreements regarding the terms of a potential fight, further emphasizing the difficulties in bringing these two boxers together in the ring.

The Weight Class Issue

Another contributing factor to the delay is the difference in weight classes. A fight would necessitate a weight agreement, potentially presenting health risks and influencing performance for both fighters.

• Weight Discrepancies and Negotiations: Benavidez typically fights at super middleweight, while Canelo has competed at various weight classes. Reaching a mutually acceptable weight limit that doesn't compromise either fighter's health or performance is a significant challenge.
• Health Risks of Weight Compromise: Forcing either fighter to make a drastic weight cut could increase the risk of injuries and negatively impact their performance in the ring.

Conclusion

Canelo's annoyance with David Benavidez is a multifaceted issue arising from Benavidez's past controversies, his aggressive fighting style, and the intricate business dynamics surrounding a potential fight. While a Canelo vs. Benavidez clash would undoubtedly be a massive event, the various obstacles highlight the considerable challenges involved in making this highly anticipated bout a reality. Will we ever see this dream match? Keep following the latest boxing news to stay updated on the Canelo-Benavidez saga and the possibility of a future showdown.