Benavidez Dethroning Canelo: Haney Silences Critics, “Bam” Brilliant

Benavidez and Haney Shine in Saudi Arabia: A New Chapter in Boxing

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was the scene of a memorable night for boxing, with outstanding performances that could mark a before and after in the pugilistic scene. David Benavidez, Devin Haney, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Abdullah Mason offered fights that captivated fans and opened up new perspectives for the future of this sport.

David Benavidez: The “Mexican Monster” on the Rise

David Benavidez defended his WBC and WBA super-middleweight titles with a dominant performance against Anthony Yarde. This victory, added to Canelo Álvarez’s recent defeat, could catapult Benavidez as the new face of Mexican boxing and, eventually, of world boxing.

Benavidez, with his aggressive and effective style, proved to be a special boxer. Extraordinary combinations, an iron jaw, and constant pressure allowed him to defeat Yarde and achieve the technical knockout in the seventh round. Benavidez, who seeks the traditional dates of Mexican boxing, such as Cinco de Mayo and the weekend of Mexican Independence Day, announced that he will seek cruiserweight titles.

“I have news for you. On May 2nd, I will face Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez. I will move up to cruiserweight to fight for his titles”.

David Benavidez

Facing a Mexican champion in another weight category could be the perfect springboard for Benavidez. His style, which combines pressure and endurance, makes him a fan favorite. Furthermore, his willingness to fight any opponent sets him apart from his contemporaries.

Devin Haney: A Questioned Champion?

Devin Haney, often criticized for his conservative style, showed a more aggressive side by defeating Brian Norman Jr. by unanimous decision to win the WBO welterweight title. Haney knocked down Norman in the second round, but failed to finish his opponent.

Haney, by defeating Norman, silenced his critics and became a champion in three divisions. However, his inability to knock out his opponent raised doubts about his ability to finish fights, which could affect his status as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers.

“In 2024, I lost everything. In 2025, I came to get it back. In 2026, I’m going for everything.”

Devin Haney

Promoter Eddie Hearn, while acknowledging Haney’s achievement, criticizes his fighting style, suggesting it could alienate fans.

Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez: Underrated Brilliance

Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez unified three super flyweight world titles with a world-class performance against Fernando Martinez. Despite fighting in a lower weight class and being only 26 years old, Rodriguez is a big star.

His exciting style and constant pursuit of the knockout make him a must-see boxer. Rodriguez is expected to face the winner of the fight between Willibaldo García Pérez and Kenshiro Teraji to become undisputed champion before moving up in weight.

Abdullah Mason: Lessons in Valor

Abdullah Mason became the youngest boxing champion by defeating Sam Noakes by unanimous decision and winning the WBO lightweight title. Mason, at only 21 years old, demonstrated his talent and determination when facing a tough opponent.

This victory will be fundamental for Mason’s development as a boxer. He learned that not all opponents give up easily and that he will have to improve his defense. In a division with a great variety of styles, Mason will have to rely on his courage and skill.