Benavidez and Haney Shine in Saudi Arabia: A Successful Saturday for Boxing
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was the epicenter of boxing last Saturday, with outstanding performances that promise to redefine the sport’s landscape. David Benavidez, Devin Haney, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, and Abdullah Mason delivered memorable nights, each with unique stories they told in the ring.
Benavidez Shows His Dominance and Aims for the Top
David Benavidez defended his WBC and WBA “regular” super middleweight titles with a dominant performance against Anthony Yarde. His technical knockout victory in the seventh round solidified his position as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. Benavidez’s impressive demonstration, known for his fierce and effective style, brings him closer to becoming the new face of Mexican boxing.
Benavidez, after the fight, announced his next goal: “On May 2nd, I will face Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez. I will move up to cruiserweight to challenge for his titles”.
David Benavidez
Benavidez, with an aggressive style and a remarkable ability to connect combinations, differs from other boxers. His willingness to face any opponent without hesitation makes him a fan favorite. At 29 years old, and with several fights ahead, Benavidez could capitalize on the moment and become the biggest star in Mexico.
Haney Silences Critics and Conquers a New Title
Devin Haney, known for his strategic style, demonstrated a more aggressive side by defeating Brian Norman Jr. by unanimous decision, winning the WBO welterweight title. Haney knocked down Norman in the second round, but failed to finish the fight. Despite criticism of his style, Haney managed to silence his detractors and establish himself as a champion in three different divisions.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, while acknowledging Haney’s achievement, commented on his style: “I don’t think anyone wants to watch him fight. He’s fighting with fear.” However, Haney, with a calculating approach, has achieved important victories, and now, with the WBO belt, he opens up to new challenges.
Rodriguez Consolidates Titles and Rises in the Ranking
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, with a world-class performance, unified three super flyweight world titles against Fernando Martinez. Rodriguez, despite competing in a lower division and being 26 years old, is a big star. His fights are exciting and he always seeks the knockout. He aims to face the winner of the fight between Willibaldo Garcia Perez and Kenshiro Teraji on December 27 to become undisputed champion before moving up in weight.
Mason Shows Valor and Wins the Lightweight Title
Abdullah Mason became the youngest boxing champion, defeating Sam Noakes by unanimous decision and winning the WBO lightweight title. Mason, 21 years old, learned valuable lessons about the importance of defense and perseverance. This triumph will be fundamental to his development as a boxer.
