David Benavidez Targets Callum Smith, Anthony Yarde Next Fights

David Benavidez, the undefeated light heavyweight champion, is actively seeking his next fight against either Callum Smith or Anthony Yarde, aiming to stay busy and move closer to unifying titles by challenging the winner of the Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev rubber match. Benavidez holds the WBA (Regular) and interim WBC light heavyweight titles and believes a victory over Smith, who holds the WBO interim title, would position him well for a fight against Bivol or Beterbiev. Despite his initial desire to fight Canelo Alvarez, Benavidez acknowledges Alvarez's upcoming bout against Terence Crawford and has expressed confidence in Crawford's ability to challenge Alvarez. He also remains open to facing Crawford at 168 pounds if Crawford defeats Alvarez. Benavidez respects the elite status of Bivol and Beterbiev but is confident he could beat either, particularly favoring a fight with Beterbiev for its entertainment value. Fans are hopeful for Benavidez's proposed matchup with Smith in the U.S., anticipating a high-action bout between two aggressive fighters.