David Benavidez makes Canelo comparison as wait for unification opportunity drags on

David Benavidez admits that Dmitry Bivol's decision to vacate the WBC light heavyweight belt reminded him of a similar swerve from Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez.

But the American is hopeful the unified champion will honour expectations for an undisputed unification battle down the line as he prepares for Anthony Yarde.

Benavidez was elevated to the full title after Bivol refused to face him following the latter's rematch victory over Artur Beterbiev to take all four major belts.

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For the star, it reminds him of Canelo, who previously ducked him at super-middleweight, though he believes his rival will ultimately come around to face him.

"This is kind of like what was going on with Canelo," he told The Ring. "But I wouldn’t rule it out.I think Dmitry Bivol is more of a man of his word than Canelo.

"If they mandate the fight again, then I’m sure it’ll happen. But I don’t really wanna bash him too much because he did have back surgery.

"He did have two great fights with Artur Beterbiev. So, when he’s ready to fight I’m gonna be right here, waiting for him.”

Benavidez must dispatch Yarde first of course, with the star chasing a first world title at the third attempt when he steps into the ring in Riyadh this weekend.

Benavidez wish may be forced to wait for trilogy closer

DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel

With belts in multiple divisions and a terrific pound-for-pound reputation, there's no denying that David Benavidez hasn't earned a shot at further light-heavyweight glory.

But his desire to ensure a matchup with Dmitry Bivol is likely to wait for a while longer, especially if the incumbent unified champion chases a major trilogy blockbuster.

The star's bouts with Artur Beterbiev are among the best for purists in recent years, and a third would surely pull devotees back in for a final showdown to settle scores.

That would likely come with the other belts in play, unless a mandatory order forces Bivol to vacate a crown and make way for another man to take his place at the top.

Benavidez, as such, could be made to wait for his rival to conduct business elsewhere or miss him entirely, unless he is once again reaffirmed as the leading contender.

Either way, don't be surprised if - with a victory over Yarde - there is another fight in his path for the first half of 2026 before he gets his hooks into another world title shot.

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David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde headline a star-studded Ring IV fight card in Riyadh this Saturday, November 22. Watch it exclusively on DAZN PPV for for £24.99 / $59.99

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