Fascinating Contingency Plan Develops at Light Heavyweight

According to reports, PBC has reportedly offered Canelo Alvarez $55m to fight David Benavidez, which has been denied by Eddy Reynoso, but according to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, they have agreed to sanction Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs) vs Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs) for the interim Lightheavyweight championship, with  Jake Donavan at Ring Magazine calling this a “contingency plan” in case the fight against Canelo cannot be made.

Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk Approved by WBC

Is Canelo vs. Benavidez Still a Possibility?

The fight between Benavidez and Gvozdyk would be an explosive one, with both possessing real KO power. “The Monster Bandera Roja” was last seen in the ring overpowering Demetrius Andrade. He’s an offensive beast, who throws his shots, with spite and intent. He also has quick hands and puts together smart combinations. Gvozdyk has only been defeated by Artur Beterbiev, but at the time of the stoppage – he was in front on all three judges’ scorecards, showing he can mix it with the best.

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Speaking on the approval of the bout by the WBC, the Ukrainian said: “I don’t see why they would make me an offer if they are going to fight Canelo.”

Benavidez also confirmed via his Instagram account that he would be moving up to 175lbs with the aim of making himself the mandatory for Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol.

What Happens Next?

In the report from The Ring, it appears the dream fight remains Canelo, and the bout against Gvozdyk seems a “contingency plan.” The opponent for the Mexican on May 4 is yet to be revealed, with it likely to be an American. Alvarez has so far only teased the date and location, with plenty of speculation on the opponent.

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The Benavidez-Gvozdyk fight would likely happen in June as part of the PBC on Amazon Prime Series. The potential move to light heavyweight would not be permanent for Benavidez. It would be with the aim – of becoming mandatory in two different weight classes – as the hard-hitting Arizona native chases down big fights.