That’s only British boxing. Please remember that Britain is small in the boxing world. Saudis are now helping British boxing. I was going to ask if your a Brit as I agree with parts of what you say from a “Brit centric” perspective. I am talking world boxing though, so cannot agree wholly. Also, it’s the move to sky that damaged the views on terrestrial tv, before ppv. But sky reduced terrestrial tv viewing on all fronts you are proving my point though, boxing is a sport with a handful of superstars. You mentioned only a handful who had become household names to casuals. People tune in to watch those names. Casuals don’t care who the opponent is. the true big test was when they “left” England to see if they could handle it with the big boys in America. Also another point proven is you say British boxing was thriving on terrestrial tv, the Saudis have not put it on terrestrial tv.
What Benaividez demonstrated again on Saturday is that he is a very well schooled fighter. He made not have had as many amateur fights as Bivol, Beterbiev and Morrell but he clearly learned his trade in the gym as a young man sparring professionals. That experience is priceless. People talk about his relentless attack and volume combined with his size missing out on his excellent fundamentals and defence. He also has great instincts. This guy is a serious cat. You are entitled to your views on a matchup between him and Bivol or Beterbiev but I will tell you now he is a problem in the way their previous opponents have not been. Take that to the bank Sir and we can discuss further when these matches are made.
No argument about his talent. He is a very good fighter that is fun too watch. I just don't have him in the same category as Bivol and Beterbiev but again, I hold the amateur backgrounds and what they have done at 175 in higher regard than what Benavidez has accomplished there so far.
I need to see Benavidez do more at 175 because Bivol and Beterbiev are solid as a rock and proven beyond any doubt at the weight. So far Benavidez just has 37 year old Gvozdyk and a guy who only ever looked good against stepping stone opponents at 168. Lets see if Benavidez can actually handle these big guys at 175 and deal with more size and more power *summons Joe Smith Jr and laughs evilly*
Strategically, who does Benavidez lose to? Strategically, who does Benavidez win against? Strategically who’s worth it? Canelo, Bivol, Beterbiev. He’s not a natural LHW, Benavidez beats Canelo and Bivol handily at both 168 and 175. My opinion, Benavidez is a worthy challenge for Beterbiev at 175.