David Benavidez Says the Canelo Era Is Over
Bold statements have reignited the debate in boxing after David Benavidez and his team launched a new criticism toward Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, claiming the time of the Mexican superstar at the top of the sport has come to an end.
For several years, one of the most talked-about potential fights in boxing has been the showdown between David Benavidez and Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez. However, the matchup never materialized despite repeated calls from Benavidez’s camp, something that continues to fuel tension between the two sides.
The controversy intensified following Canelo Álvarez’s surprising defeat against Terence Crawford, a fighter who moved up multiple weight divisions to face the Mexican champion. That result sparked renewed criticism about the Guadalajara native’s recent choices in the ring and raised questions about the direction of his career.
Now, Benavidez and his camp believe the balance of power in boxing may be shifting.
Benavidez Camp Declares the End of Canelo’s Era
The strongest remarks came from José Benavidez Sr., father and trainer of David Benavidez, who did not hold back while speaking about the current state of Canelo Álvarez’s career.
According to the veteran trainer, the long and demanding career of the Mexican superstar may finally be catching up with him. He pointed to the numerous high-level bouts and intense training camps that have defined Canelo’s path over the years.
In his view, the signs are already visible.
José Benavidez Sr. suggested that fighters often decline not only because of fights but also because of the wear accumulated in the gym. He argued that Canelo Álvarez has endured countless battles and extremely demanding preparation cycles throughout his career, which could now be affecting his reflexes, mobility, and overall physical performance.
With that perspective, the Benavidez camp believes a transition is underway in the sport.
They insist the next dominant figure in the division will be David Benavidez, a fighter who remains undefeated and continues to build momentum among boxing fans.
David Benavidez Eyes a Major Fight in Las Vegas
While the rivalry with Canelo Álvarez continues to dominate headlines, David Benavidez is focused on the next challenge of his career.
The undefeated boxer, who holds a record of 31 victories without defeat, is scheduled to return to the ring on May 2, 2026. His opponent will be fellow Mexican Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez, in a bout set to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The fight will have major stakes, with the WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles expected to be on the line. A victory in that matchup could further strengthen Benavidez’s position as one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport today.
For now, the possibility of a clash between Canelo Álvarez and David Benavidez remains one of boxing’s biggest unanswered questions. But with bold words coming from the Benavidez camp and a crucial fight on the horizon, the conversation surrounding the future of both fighters is far from over.
