Fans have eagerly anticipated the mandatory title defense bout between Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez for quite some time, to the point where their patience has worn thin.
Many fans have pointed fingers at the WBC, accusing them of favoring Alvarez and acting as his protector. In response to the mounting frustration, the WBC has finally provided a timeline for this highly-anticipated showdown.
WBC president has set March 2024 for Canelo Alvarez’s title defense against David Benavidez
During an interview with Broadway Joel, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman disclosed that Canelo Alvarez’s upcoming defense of his super middleweight title against David Benavidez is scheduled to take place in May of 2024.
“Benavidez defeated Plant in March of this year, so the date for his mandatory position is March 2024. Yeah, they can fight any time,” said Sulaiman.
Canelo Alvarez on David Benavidez fight: “Maybe in the future” #Boxing https://t.co/c2jRb7h0lp pic.twitter.com/i5iLooKFty
— Boxing News 24 (@boxingnews24) July 16, 2023
Meanwhile, in a decision regarding his next bout, Alvarez, the current undisputed super middleweight champion, has chosen Jermell Charlo as his upcoming challenger to safeguard his championship titles.
Lengthy delay in Canelo Alvarez’s title defense has angered boxing fans
The delay of the Canelo vs Benavidez fight has sparked frustration among boxing fans worldwide, leading to an outpouring of complaints on Twitter.
“Canelo must really be paying extra on those sanctioning fees because this is outrageous and makes him look terrible!” Scott said.
BREAKING: The WBC will not officially order Canelo Alvarez to defend his undisputed super-middleweight world titles vs David Benavidez until March 2024, 1 year after he won the WBC 'interim' belt and mandatory position.
[Source:@_BroadwayJoel]#CaneloAlvarez #WBC— Muhammad Zain (@MCFCZain_) July 17, 2023
A user expressed his frustration regarding WBC by saying, “WBC is a Mickey Mouse organization. Both Canelo and Fury just do whatever they want. Unserious sport.”
“How come WBC gives Devin until Friday but Canelo gets until 2024 for his mandatory? Shakur just got to 135 and only had one fight.” another user said.
Another user accused WBC of protecting Saul by stating, “The WBC really doesn’t even try to hide who they protect certain champions. Won’t enforce Canelo mandatory. Won’t strip Jermall. And won’t allow Bivol to fight for undisputed.”
Troy expressed his harsh opinion, saying, “Do these “orders” mean anything? Like in other words if he doesn’t make the Benavidez happen by then, do they take the belt away from him?”
“This will only benefit Benavidez in the long run, he’ll fight an older and washed version of Canelo.” another user commented.
Canelo Alvarez vs David Benavidez…
Who wins? 🤔#DavidBenavidez #Canelo #Boxeo pic.twitter.com/UFX6PnI5mC
— IFL TV (@IFLTV) March 26, 2023
What is your take on the delayed title defense bout of Canelo Alvarez against David Benavidez? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
