Benavidez and Haney Shine in Saudi Arabia: An Epic Boxing Saturday
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was the stage for an unforgettable night for boxing, with stellar performances that promise to redefine the sport’s landscape. David Benavidez, Devin Haney, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, and Abdullah Mason offered fights that captivated fans and left an indelible mark.
Benavidez: The Mexican Monster is Consecrated
David Benavidez defended his WBC and WBA super-middleweight titles with a display of power against Anthony Yarde. His performance, marked by relentless combinations and constant pressure, solidified his position as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world.
Benavidez, with his victory, opens the door to become the new face of Mexican boxing and, eventually, of world boxing.
Alofoke Deportes
Benavidez, who seeks to appropriate the emblematic dates of Mexican boxing, Cinco de Mayo and the weekend of Mexico’s Independence, announced his next objective: to challenge Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez for his cruiserweight titles on May 2nd. This confrontation, if it materializes, could be the beginning of a new era for “The Mexican Monster”.
His aggressive style and willingness to face any rival set him apart. At 29 years old, Benavidez has a promising future ahead, while other stars begin to give way to new generations.
Devin Haney: Overcoming Criticism and Conquering Titles
Devin Haney, often criticized for his cautious style, demonstrated a more aggressive facet by defeating Brian Norman Jr. by unanimous decision and obtaining the WBO welterweight title. Although he knocked down Norman in the second round, he failed to finish the fight, which raised doubts about his ability to knock out his opponents.
Haney, with this victory, becomes a champion in three divisions, silencing his detractors. However, his lack of decisiveness in recent years remains a topic of debate.
Haney stated: “In 2024, I lost everything. In 2025, I came to get it back. In 2026, I’m going for everything.”Devin HaneyHis style, similar to that of Floyd Mayweather, is based on strategy and precision, allowing him to achieve victories without taking great risks. This tactic could be key to securing the fights he wants, as his rivals believe they have the opportunity to beat him. Eddie Hearn, promoter of Matchroom Boxing, although he acknowledges his achievement, criticizes his fighting style.
With the WBO title in his possession, Haney prepares to face other champions in the division, such as Mario Barrios, Ryan Garcia, Lewis Crocker, or Rolando “Rolly” Romero. All of them will seek to snatch the belt from him and prove their worth.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez: Shining in the Lower Divisions
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez unified three super flyweight world titles in a world-class performance against Fernando Martinez. Despite competing in a lower division, Rodriguez is a rising star. His exciting style and constant pursuit of the knockout make him a must-see boxer.
At 26 years old, Rodriguez seeks to become undisputed champion by facing the winner of the fight between Willibaldo García Pérez and Kenshiro Teraji. His goal is to win the hearts of the fans and establish himself as a prominent figure in the world of boxing.
Abdullah Mason: Learning and Determination
Abdullah Mason, in a confrontation filled with courage and determination, became the youngest boxing champion by obtaining the WBO lightweight title. Mason, at only 21 years old, demonstrated his talent and resilience by facing a tough opponent like Sam Noakes.
This victory, in which Mason had to overcome difficulties, will be fundamental for his development as a boxer. His defensive deficiencies will need to be corrected to face rivals with different styles. In a competitive division, Mason’s will and skill will be put to the test.
