David Benavidez will test his “Monster” moniker against David Morrell on February 1 in Las Vegas, and trainer Jose Benavidez Sr. predicts nothing short of a demolition by his son. Moving up from 168, the 28-year-old Benavidez faces a younger opponent who matches his size but promises even more power - setting the stage for a defining moment in both fighters’ careers. Morrell, a two-time world champion, has labeled Benavidez “fake” and sees this bout as an opportunity to expose him.
The fight’s outcome could change Benavidez’s future. Team Morrell claims Benavidez walks around at 215-220 lbs, hinting that a move to cruiserweight is on the table if he loses. Trainer Jose Benavidez Sr. has already floated the idea of challenging WBA/WBO champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez at 200 pounds. But for now, the focus remains on light heavyweight, where a defeat to Morrell might mean tough odds against top dogs like Artur Beterbiev or Dmitry Bivol.
Despite that, Benavidez aims to prove he’s not just hype. According to his father, confidence is sky-high that he’ll “destroy” Morrell and then pursue title fights with Bivol, Beterbiev, or even Ramirez in the future.
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Image Credit: PBC