The boxing world was minding its business and going about its day as normal as possible. But, seemingly out of nowhere, Canelo Alvarez dropped the sort of news that made everyone stop what they were doing.
A few weeks ago, the current super middleweight undisputed titlist came out and informed fans that he signed a three-fight deal with Premier Boxing Champions. Of course, internet and Twitter reporters began speculating who Alvarez would face during that three-fight stretch. The final two fights of his deal are ambiguous in terms of his opponents but for his first bout, just about everyone was convinced that Alvarez would be facing Jermall Charlo.
Days went by without Alvarez saying a word. Then, arbitrarily, Alvarez released a fight poster depicting both he and Jermell Charlo, Jermall’s twin brother and the current undisputed champion at 154 pounds.
Heads exploded as fans and media pundits began envisioning how things will play out between them. Jose Benavidez Sr., father, and trainer of David Benavidez, was also shell-shocked. After being initially taken aback, Benavidez Sr. is now trying to wrap his head around a new reality.
For years on end, the father/son duo has called Alvarez out. But, with Jermell landing the opportunity first, there’s now a world where, if Jermell wins, both he and David could dance in the center of the ring. Although team Benavidez has never turned down a challenge, Benavidez Sr. appears contrite over that possibility.
“I can’t even imagine that,” said Benavidez Sr. to BoxingScene.com. “David is too big, too young for him. That wouldn’t even be fair.”
Jermell, a career 154-pounder, has now become a pertinent figure in the super middleweight division. Thanks to his movement, dogged mentality, and picture-perfect punch placement, Benavidez Sr. is taking the smaller Charlo to score the upset.
A win for Jermell is only the beginning of a bemusing situation. Will the 33-year-old move back down in weight and defend his undisputed junior middleweight throne? Will he stay put as the division’s new kingpin? Regardless of what he ultimately decides to do, Benavidez Sr. doesn’t believe that it would be auspicious for Jermell to remain at 168 pounds. So, Benavidez Sr. fully expects Jermell’s super middleweight appearance to be more of a cameo.
“I’m thinking if he wins the belts at 168, he’ll probably leave them.”
Credit: Boxingnews24
