Shakur Stevenson Urges Benavidez to Chase “Best Fight in Boxing” – Bivol Showdown Over Cruiserweight Titles
Four-division world champion Shakur Stevenson has weighed in on the future of David Benavidez, urging the Mexican superstar to prioritize what he calls the “best fight in boxing” over defending his newly won WBO and WBA cruiserweight titles. Stevenson, who holds the WBC light-heavyweight belt, has publicly advocated for a Benavidez vs. Dmitry Bivol rematch—despite the cruiserweight champ’s recent dominance at 200 pounds.
Why This Fight Matters: The Case for Bivol vs. Benavidez
Benavidez’s sixth-round knockout of Gilberto Ramírez last week cemented his status as a three-division world champion (WBA/WBO cruiserweight, WBC light-heavyweight, and IBF/WBC super-middleweight). However, Stevenson argues that the most compelling next step for Benavidez isn’t defending these titles—it’s returning to his natural weight class and facing Bivol, the undisputed heavyweight champion who vacated the WBC light-heavyweight title after his victory over Artur Beterbiev in February 2025.
“I don’t think I want to see him fight at the 200-pound weight class. I would rather see him fight [at 175lbs against] Bivol or Beterbiev.”
Stevenson’s reasoning is straightforward: a Bivol-Benavidez clash would be the most high-stakes, skill-based matchup in the sport right now. With Bivol preparing to defend his remaining three 175-lb titles against Michael Eifert on May 30, the window for this fight could open sooner than many expect.
Key Details: The Benavidez-Bivol Scenario
1. Weight Class Debate: Cruiserweight vs. Light Heavyweight
Benavidez’s recent victory came at 202 pounds, sparking debates about whether cruiserweight (200 lbs) or heavyweight (212+ lbs) is his optimal division. Stevenson dismisses the cruiserweight path, arguing:
- Physical Fit: Benavidez has historically thrived at 175 lbs, where his speed and power are maximized.
- Skill Matchup: Bivol’s technical mastery at light heavyweight would create a clash of styles—Benavidez’s relentless pressure vs. Bivol’s precision.
- Title Significance: The WBC light-heavyweight belt remains vacant, making this a true championship opportunity.
2. The Bivol Factor: Why He’s the Priority
Bivol, a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion, is coming off a dominant performance against Beterbiev. His upcoming fight against Eifert (May 30) could set the stage for a Benavidez showdown later this year. Stevenson’s insistence on this matchup stems from:
- Historical Context: Bivol vacated the WBC light-heavyweight title after his Beterbiev win, elevating Benavidez from interim to full champion.
- Fan Demand: The Bivol-Benavidez fight has been a top fan request since Bivol’s title vacation.
- Strategic Alignment: Stevenson believes Benavidez’s long-term legacy would benefit from a return to his natural weight class.
Alternative Paths: Usyk and Opetaia in the Mix
While Stevenson focuses on Bivol, other high-profile matchups are circulating:
| Opponent | Weight Class | Title at Stake | Stevenson’s Stance | Feasibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dmitry Bivol | Light Heavyweight (175 lbs) | Vacant WBC light-heavyweight | ✅ “Best fight in boxing” | High (Bivol’s May 30 fight sets stage) |
| Oleksandr Usyk | Heavyweight (212+ lbs) | WBC heavyweight | ❌ “Not ideal timing” | Low (Usyk’s schedule unclear) |
| Jai Opetaia | Cruiserweight (200 lbs) | WBO cruiserweight | ❌ “Defensive fight, not best” | Medium (Opetaia’s availability) |
Note: Stevenson has previously expressed interest in a Benavidez-Usyk fight but insists it should only happen if Benavidez moves up to heavyweight full-time—a path Stevenson believes is premature.
FAQ: Benavidez’s Next Steps
- Q: Why does Stevenson prefer 175 lbs over 200 lbs for Benavidez?
- A: Stevenson argues Benavidez’s peak athleticism is at 175 lbs, where his speed and power are optimized. A return to light heavyweight would also allow him to pursue the vacant WBC title.
- Q: Could Benavidez face Usyk at heavyweight?
- A: Possible, but unlikely soon. Stevenson has said any Usyk fight should only happen if Benavidez commits to heavyweight full-time, not as a one-off cruiserweight excursion.
- Q: What’s the timeline for a Benavidez-Bivol fight?
- A: Preliminary talks are underway, but the earliest realistic window is late 2026, pending Bivol’s performance against Eifert on May 30.
- Q: Why isn’t Benavidez defending his cruiserweight titles?
- A: Stevenson believes defensive fights at 200 lbs would limit Benavidez’s long-term potential. A return to 175 lbs could rejuvenate his career.
Expert Analysis: The Strategic Implications
Stevenson’s push for Bivol isn’t just about personal preference—it’s a calculated move:
- Legacy Building: A Benavidez-Bivol fight would be a true unification clash, solidifying Benavidez’s place among boxing’s elite.
- Weight Class Clarity: Returning to 175 lbs would help define Benavidez’s optimal division, avoiding the cruiserweight stigma.
- Fan Engagement: The Bivol-Benavidez rivalry has massive global appeal, particularly in Russia and the U.S.
However, challenges remain:
- Bivol’s camp may prioritize heavyweight defenses over a light-heavyweight rematch.
- Benavidez’s recent success at 200 lbs could tempt promoters to push cruiserweight title defenses.
- Usyk’s potential interest in a heavyweight showdown adds another variable.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Benavidez?
With Stevenson’s endorsement, the Bivol path appears the most strategically sound for Benavidez. However, the cruiserweight titles and Usyk’s heavyweight ambitions remain wild cards. One thing is certain: Benavidez’s next fight will shape the trajectory of his career—and Stevenson’s influence could be the deciding factor.
Key Takeaways:
- Stevenson calls Benavidez-Bivol the “best fight in boxing” and urges a return to 175 lbs.
- Bivol’s May 30 fight against Eifert could accelerate talks for a rematch.
- Usyk and Opetaia remain alternative options, but Stevenson dismisses them as secondary.
- A Bivol victory would make Benavidez a four-division world champion.