Undefeated Demetrius Andrade & WBC interim super middleweight champion David Benavidez will be fighting on November 24th on Showtime PPV at 8 pm ET.
Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs will be defending his interim WBC belt against Andrade (32-0,19 KOs) in fight with the winner to be in a position to fight for the full world title against Canelo Alvarez vs.Jermell.
Canelo will obviously do whatever he pleases and won’t be forced to face the Andrade vs.Benavidez winner. Yeah, it’ll look bad if Canelo chooses not to fight the winner, but he looked poor, choosing not to avenge his loss to Dmitry Bivol.
The 26-year-old Benavidez has been waiting for a crack at Canelo’s WBC belt since picking up the interim 168-lb title last year in May when he knocked out David Lemieux.
For some reason, the World Boxing Council has hesitated to order Canelo to defend against Benavidez.
Perhaps they’ve been afraid that if they did order Canelo to face him, he would vacate as he did years ago when they ordered him to defend against his mandatory Gennadiy Golovkin in 2016 at 160.
Although Canelo eventually fought Golovkin in 2017, he didn’t do it when the WBC tried making that fight happen.
Benavidez has been doing his job, defeating Caleb Plant last March. If he beats the 35-year-old former two-division world champion, Andrade, that would further stamp him as being worthy of a title shot against Canelo.
Obviously, it would have been better if Benavidez had accepted the offer to fight WBA ‘regular’ super middleweight champion David Morrell Jr., but you can’t blame him for not fighting the Cuban.
That would have been a dangerous fight that Benavidez could have lost, so he arguably swerved it, just like Canelo has been swerving him. Benavidez is ambitious, but he’s not crazy. He’s just as hesitant in taking dangerous fights that don’t involve a massive payday as Canelo is.
Demetrius has taken a hit in terms of his popularity for not fighting Zach Parker and middleweight Janibek Alimkhanuly. He vacated his WBC 160-lb title when Janibek was at his doorstep, ready to battle him for his belt.
What backfired on Andrade big time was his failure to fight Zach Parker because if he’d won that fight, he’d have been Canelo’s WBO 168-lb mandatory.
So, instead of Andrade fighting Parker, John Ryder did and defeated him to become mandatory for Canelo.
Ryder then was given a title shot against Canelo last May and lost the fight by a 12 round decision but made a ton of money. That could have been Andrde’s massive payday if he’d been a little more brave.
Andrade & Benavidez share something in common, with both guys avoiding risky fights, which cost them a chance to fight Canelo.
Demetrius Andrade shared his thoughts on Friday:
“I possess numerous strengths. My athletic skills and thorough preparation enable me to triumph over any opponent. This training camp has been outstanding. Despite challenges, we’ve accomplished all necessary steps to secure a win in this fight.
I’ve encountered every fighting style that exists today. My strategy involves identifying my opponent’s weaknesses and executing the most effective approach.
I’m prepared to lead with my strongest qualities, and I anticipate David will attempt to match that, even if his abilities don’t compare to mine. The fight will certainly be enjoyable.
I’ve been preparing for this moment throughout my career. Our combined drive and determination will undoubtedly result in an exciting fight.
I won’t fully understand his strengths until we’re in the ring, but from observation, he seems to dominate his opponents. That’s the main takeaway. On November 25, I plan to reveal his vulnerabilities.
This is a clash of the best fighters. It’s a significant moment, perfectly timed. This fight is the most logical and relevant right now.”
“Grab your popcorn, this bout’s going to be epic. I’ve been waiting patiently, and here it is – the best fight at 168 pounds. We’re both game, no messing around. It’s time for action.
We’re going to handle Lord Farquaad. If you get it, you get it. If not, well… It’s going to be one heck of a night. And the new! And still!
It’s battle time. David and I made this happen, and now it’s a reality. There’s no turning back for either of us. We’re here to show that the best should fight the best.
David might walk into a trap and end it early, which is fine by me. We fight, we get paid, we celebrate.
Vegas, the heart of boxing. We’re about to make history on November 25. Everyone’s going to leave a mark.
Thanks to the Benavídez family for the shot at becoming a three-division world champ. It’s all about my energy and staying loose.”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“I’m aiming for a stoppage against Andrade. I’ve put in immense effort. My disappointment from the last fight going the distance fuels my determination to stop Demetrius Andrade this time.
I’m bracing for the most challenging fight. That’s my standard approach. After three months of training and sparring 15 rounds at a stretch, I feel completely ready.
Andrade has his strengths, but I’ve also spotted weaknesses. We’ll craft an excellent game plan to take advantage of those on November 25.”
“This year’s wrapping up with a bang, and I’m pretty sure this card’s going to steal the show. Everyone’s got something to prove, and trust me, it won’t be a letdown. Both the co-main event and the main event are contenders for fight of the year. We’re pumped to deliver the action the fans are craving.
For me, this fight’s the real deal. My opponent’s at the peak of the division, an Olympian, and a champion in two divisions. Taking him on was the only way to show I’m the top dog. He’s no walk in the park, but winning’s my thing, and Saturday’s not going to change that.
When I step in the ring, the jokes end. My record says it all – I’m a one-way ticket to the hospital for my opponents.
I’m not here to play around. At the first chance, I’ll go for the knockout. That’s what the fans are here for – knockouts and a good scrap. I’m ready to prove I’m the victor come Saturday.
My last fight? It was my debut on pay-per-view, and now I’m here to stay. I’m all about giving the fans exciting fights against the best out there.
I’m here to silence the doubters. I’m out to prove to myself that I’m the best by beating the best.
This training camp’s been intense. I’ve dedicated three-and-a-half months to it, and I’m ready. I see the openings, I’ll take them. I’m here to put on a show and give the fans a battle they won’t forget.”
JERMALL CHARLO
“I’m geared up for a serious fight with José. He’s acting all different now that we’re face to face. Can’t wait to show I’m back on November 25. I’ll be stepping up to 168 pounds soon. Best of luck to the guys in the main event. Big Charlo is in the house.
José’s rattled now that we’re up close. His childish antics won’t matter come fight night.
No matter the trash talk, I’m fighting at my peak. Something’s off with this guy. He doesn’t know what he’s in for. 32 have tried, 32 have failed. He’s just another step for me to climb.
I fight hard every round, and I’m out for the knockout. When I say I’ll do it, I make it happen.
I’m just going to do my thing, stick to the plan. He’s small in every way, not just in size. I’m back and bigger than ever.”
JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ JR.
“I’m ready to take on anyone, anywhere. I’m keeping it short – may the best man win.
The only reason I’m keeping cool is to keep this fight on track. I warned him – get in my face, and I’ll take care of business. That’s exactly what I’ll do come Saturday.
This is a dream come true. Growing up with David and reaching this point is surreal. It’s a big night for us.
If I was just a step for him, he’d have put his title on the line. He’s just posturing.
I’ve been in the gym, prepping alongside David for Caleb Plant. I’m in top form and ready for action.
I’ll put a stop to Charlo. He underestimates me, thinking this is easy. He’s in for a surprise. I’m here to win.”
JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Trainer and Father of David and Jose Jr.
“Having both my sons fight on the same card on November 25 is incredibly meaningful. It’s the culmination of years of hard work, tears, and challenges. It’s a feeling beyond words.
These are probably the toughest fights for both David and Jose Jr. Each fight gets more challenging, but I’ve trained them to be warriors fit for this sport. I have full confidence in their ability to triumph and secure stoppages.
Charlo’s decision to fight Jose Jr. was a mistake. Jose Jr. has already defied many expectations. Watching his current sparring sessions is inspiring. It really drives me.
I predict David will stop Andrade around the eighth or ninth round, and I see Jose securing a stoppage around the sixth or seventh.”
When is the Benavidez vs. Andrade fight scheduled?
A: The fight is on Saturday, November 25. The main card starts at 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. UK, with the main event ringwalks expected around 11 p.m. ET / 4 a.m. The UK. These times may vary depending on the undercard bouts.
Q: How can I watch Benavidez vs. Andrade?
A: In the U.S., the fight is available on Showtime PPV. In the UK, it’s being broadcast on FITE TV.
Q: Where will the Benavidez vs. Andrade fight take place?
A: The event is at the Michelob ULTRA Arena, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas.
Q: What’s the full fight card for Benavidez vs. Andrade?
A: The card includes Benavidez vs. Andrade; Super middleweight, Matias vs. Ergashev; for the IBF world super lightweight title, Garcia vs. Roach; for the WBA world super featherweight title, Charlo vs. Jose Benavidez Jr.; Middleweight, Lipinets vs. Rivera; Super lightweight, Vicente vs. Yaqubov; Super featherweight, Mielnicki Jr. vs. Salazar Flores; Light middleweight, Blancas vs. Santana; Super middleweight, Mercardo vs. Rivers; Super lightweight, Moton vs. Turbyfill; Featherweight, Chollet vs. Perez; Lightweight, and Holley vs. Medina; Welterweight.
Weigh In Results
SHOWTIME PPV Event on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, held at Michelob ULTRA Arena, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas.
- Interim WBC Super Middleweight World Title Fight (12 Rounds):
- David Benavídez: 167 lbs.
- Demetrius Andrade: 167.6 lbs.
- Officials: Referee Thomas Taylor, Judges Tim Cheatham (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.).
Middleweight Fight (10 Rounds):
- Jermall Charlo: 166.4 lbs.
- José Benavídez Jr.: 161.2 lbs. (Note: Original contracted weight was 163 lbs. Fight proceeds as scheduled.)
- Officials: Referee Harvey Dock, Judges Max DeLuca (N.Y.), Dave Moretti (Nev.), Zachary Young (Calif.).
IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship Fight (12 Rounds):
- Subriel Matías: 139.8 lbs.
- Shohjahon Ergashev: 139.8 lbs.
- Officials: Referee Celestino Ruiz, Judges David Sutherland (Okla.), Don Trella (Conn.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.).
WBA Super Featherweight World Championship Fight (12 Rounds):
- Héctor Garcia: 129.4 lbs.
- Lamont Roach: 129.6 lbs.
- Officials: Referee Tony Weeks, Judges Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Max DeLuca (N.Y.), Robert Hoyle (Nev.).
- SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN – Live Stream starting 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page.
Super Lightweight Fight (10 Rounds):
- Sergey Lipinets: 139.4 lbs.
- Michel Rivera: 138.8 lbs.
- Officials: Referee Celestino Ruiz, Judges Eric Cheek (Nev.), Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.).
Super Welterweight Fight (10 Rounds):
- Vito Mielnicki Jr.: 153.2 lbs.
- Alexis Salazar: 152.8 lbs.
- Officials: Referee Robert Hoyle, Judges Lisa Giampa (Nev.), Chris Migliore (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.).