In a recent interview with ESPN, two-time super middleweight world champion David Benavidez, known as “The Red Flag,” shared his unwavering commitment to excellence in professional boxing. His aspirations transcend financial gain, as he seeks to establish himself among the sport’s all-time greats.
“When I was a little kid, I made a promise to myself that I was gonna go up against the best fighters and I was gonna beat the best fighters,” Benavidez declared, reflecting on his lifelong ambition.
Benavidez admires legendary figures such as Oscar De La Hoya, Julio César Chávez, Roy Jones Jr., and Marco Antonio Barrera. He expressed his desire to leave a lasting legacy comparable to these boxing icons.
According to Benavidez, his career goal is clear: to be remembered on the same level as the legends who inspired him.
Addressing the Canelo Álvarez Question
When asked about a potential fight with Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, Benavidez made his stance unequivocal.
“I think I’ve shown my worth. Everybody knows that the fight versus me and Canelo would definitely be a sellout. If Canelo doesn’t ever want to fight me, then I don’t need to fight him. I really don’t care,” Benavidez said.
While fans eagerly anticipate the clash, Benavidez emphasized that his career will not hinge on this matchup.
“If he wants to keep ducking me, and not fighting me, and showing the world that he only cares about money and not about fighting the best fighters in the world, then he can do whatever he wants,” Benavidez expressed.
For Benavidez, the focus remains on his journey: “I don’t care about Canelo. All I care about is my career. I care about staying in my lane and beating the best fighters in the world. And that’s how it’s always gonna be.”
Creating His Own Lane
Despite the uncertainty surrounding a fight with Canelo, Benavidez is determined to forge his own path.
“Obviously, that’s a fight that we all want. It would be a great fight for the fans. But you know what I mean? At the end of the day, if he don’t want [it], I can’t force that man to fight me,” he remarked.
Benavidez remains focused on maintaining his dominance in the ring: “I’m gonna just keep winning, keep being dominant and, you know, making my own lane from here on out.”
At just 27 years old, David Benavidez is poised to cement his status as one of boxing’s brightest stars. His ambition, talent, and dedication to fighting the best position him as a formidable figure in the sport’s future, whether or not a showdown with Canelo Álvarez ever materializes.