David Benavidez Accuses Dmitry Bivol of Avoiding Big Fights

David Benavidez has accused light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol of avoiding elite competition after attempts to make a fight between them stalled. Benavidez stated that Bivol is unwilling to accept major challenges following the booking of his upcoming bout against Callum Smith in Yekaterinburg on December 12. As a result, Benavidez is shifting his career focus toward the cruiserweight division.

Boxing 24/7 Wire argues that Bivol is making comfort-zone choices following back surgery and grueling bouts with Artur Beterbiev. Benavidez announced he will fight on December 5 in Phoenix, Arizona, and targets a clash against cruiserweight titleholder Jai Opetaia on Cinco de Mayo at T-Mobile Arena.