David “El Monstro” Benavidez (31-0, 25 KOs) steps up to the division and challenges joint WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (48-1, 30 KOs).
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A 25-pound weight gain is the largest weight gain between classes. David wants to take championship gold in his third division. Fighting on Cinco De Mayo weekend, he aims to become Mexico’s next champion and take over from Canelo Alvarez, who will be there to support Jaime Munguia’s reputation. In this event, there will be the WBA super middleweight champion Armando Resendiz who defends the title for the first time against Munguia.
Benavidez will want to use his strength to his advantage. When asked how Zurdo will handle his speed and volume Benavidez said, “I don’t think he’ll be able to handle it to be honest with you. People at 168 and 175 couldn’t handle my speed. So I know for sure he’s going to have trouble handling my speed, but I don’t think so.
As he weighs 196.4 kilograms, he will be a small man. Zurdo weighed 3.6 pounds over 200. This is Ramirez’s fifth fight as a cruiserweight, and he carries experience in the division. He is used to this weight, and how much of an advantage he has in strength remains to be seen. David said he didn’t have to lose as much weight as he usually does and he feels stronger and faster at this stage.
His father and trainer, Jose Benavidez, is aware of the challenges Gilberto faces, but they have prepared him and are willing to make the necessary changes in the ring to be successful. He believes that the pressure they will put on Zurdo will be very big and will stop him in the eighth or ninth round.
Jose says he saw a big difference in David during this training camp. Saying that he finally found the strength of his man, even though he is 29 years old, he said that he feels stronger than before. Jose believes that speed and power will overwhelm Zurdo, he will not be able to resist it.
If Jose’s assessment of David’s strength is true, we may see Ramirez stop for the first time in his career. Doing so will be a reminder. The big question for David is how will he do at this weight? Boxing resistance will be key; if he can absorb Zurdo’s punches well, he will be able to follow his game plan and apply pressure.
He did well last November against Anthony Yarde, stopping him in the seventh round. He beat him with speed and volume. Now he wants to take this opportunity and give a career-defining performance on the big stage for the Cinco De Mayo weekend. He wants nothing more than to fulfill his expectations. He is focused and determined to give the fans a good show.
Last updated on 2026/05/02 at 12:27 PM
