Dmitry Bivol’s Team Calls For David Benavidez Fight

Trainer Gennadi Mashyanov says Bivol wants the undisputed showdown after Saturday’s title defense against Michael Eifert

Dmitry Bivol’s camp is already targeting David Benavidez after Saturday’s light heavyweight title defense against Michael Eifert in Russia. Trainer Gennadi Mashyanov made it clear the fight his team wants next is the long-discussed showdown with Benavidez.

Benavidez recently moved up to cruiserweight and stopped Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez to capture the WBA and WBO titles before announcing plans to return to 175 pounds. The unbeaten former two-division super middleweight champion has repeatedly called for a fight against Bivol, and Mashyanov says the interest goes both ways.

“My personal goal right now is this guy Benavidez, who let’s just say, talks a lot. We’ll see what he’s really made of,” said Gennadi Mashyanov on Instagram.

“I’d like him to stop running his mouth. For that to happen, someone has to get in the ring with him and shut it for good.”

Mashyanov’s comments came during an interview with the IBA as Bivol prepares to defend his IBF and WBA light heavyweight titles against Michael Eifert on Saturday in Ekaterinburg, Russia.

Bivol is coming off back-to-back victories over Artur Beterbiev that cemented his standing as one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters. Prior wins over Canelo Alvarez and Gilberto Ramirez also strengthened his position at 175 pounds, though many fans view Benavidez as the most dangerous style matchup available because of his pressure and output.

The WBO title will not be on the line against Eifert after the sanctioning body declined to approve the defense because of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Bivol will still retain the belt and remain free to defend it in a future fight.

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