David Benavidez is highly optimistic that his fight with Saul "Canelo" Alvarez is becoming more likely, and there are reasons for this.

Despite Alvarez initially demanding an astronomical $200 million to face Benavidez, the idea hasn't been entirely dismissed.

"I feel like it's going to happen soon. I don't know how soon, but it's looking more realistic," Benavidez told BoxingScene. "I think Canelo might end up getting his $200 million and we might be getting the fight we all want. It's very exciting news for us. We just have to stay working hard and stay ready for the opportunity. When that opportunity comes, I will take full advantage of that."

In recent years, the two have struggled to reach an agreement, so the funding for the fight may need to come from Saudi Arabian boxing power broker Turki Alalshikh, chairman of the country's General Sports Authority. Benavidez mentioned that he was initially offered a $5 million flat fee, which he accepted, emphasizing that his primary focus is on winning rather than the payout. He knows that a victory over Alvarez would lead to more lucrative opportunities, including a potential rematch and becoming a pay-per-view star.

Watch David "El Monstruo" Benavidez's TOP KNOCKOUTS: Watch

Also in the interview, Benavidez stated that he would drop back to 168 pounds for a fight with Alvarez and is open to a rehydration clause but not a catchweight:

"Whatever [the terms are], as long as it's not ridiculous. I just want to make this fight happen," said Benavidez. He also added that if Alvarez is confident in his abilities, there should be no need for a catchweight.

Despite the ongoing negotiations, Benavidez is prepared to continue his career regardless of whether the Alvarez fight materializes:

"I've been kind of done with 168 pounds. I earned the opportunity to fight Canelo Alvarez, but since I am not getting that fight, there is really no other fight at 168. I want to test 175 pounds, and this is the perfect opportunity [against Gvozdyk]."

Don't forget, that Benavidez is set to make his light heavyweight debut on June 15 against former titleholder Oleksandr Gvozdyk, who is managed by Alvarez’s coach Eddy Reynoso.

You can click here to learn more about the upcoming Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk fight:

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