Canelo Explains Why He Rejected Benavidez’s Challenge

Mexican world champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs), who holds the WBA, WBC, and WBO super middleweight titles, explained his decision not to accept a challenge from American David Benavidez (29-0, 24 KOs).

"When someone steps up and challenges you like that, you don’t owe them anything. At this stage, I’ve already fought all the champions and the best opponents. Now, I can do whatever I want, and I didn’t like how Benavidez approached getting this fight.

I think if he really wanted the fight, he would have been more respectful.

Crawford? Yes, people want to see that fight, and maybe they will. We don’t know yet. Maybe it will happen. I’m always open to good fights. He’s a very good boxer with great skills, so maybe we’ll see that fight. But for now, nothing is certain," Canelo said on The Ring podcast.

Canelo last fought in September, defeating Edgar Berlanga via unanimous decision to retain his titles.

David Benavidez is scheduled to face David Morrell on February 1 in his next fight.

Recently, Terence Crawford’s trainer, Bernie Davis, revealed the potential date for a Crawford vs. Canelo showdown. Additionally, Alvarez has commented on the age at which he plans to retire from professional boxing.