Trainer dismisses all challengers at 175 and cruiserweight after Benavidez stops Gilberto Ramirez for WBA and WBO titles
Jose Benavidez Sr says Oleksandr Usyk is the only fighter who can test David Benavidez after his cruiserweight title win over Gilberto Ramirez. With no clear challenger lined up at 175 or 200, the discussion now shifts beyond the division.
Despite moving up in weight, Benavidez handled the size without issue and controlled the pace. Jose Benavidez Sr. said he does not see threats at light-heavyweight or cruiserweight.
“I’m going to be honest with you: I don’t see any danger for David Benavidez at 175 and at cruiserweight,” Jose Sr said to Fight Hub TV.
“Nobody can beat David. This is ‘The Monster’ era. He’s beating everybody in every division, so he might as well go to heavyweight.”
He pointed to one name as the biggest test.
“I think the biggest challenge would be Oleksandr Usyk. That’s something out of this world. That’s the only guy that I think could challenge him.”
One name not mentioned was Jai Opetaia, who holds the Ring title at cruiserweight and is widely viewed as a leading figure in the division. Opetaia is currently aligned with Zuffa Boxing, while Benavidez fights under PBC and DAZN, creating a potential platform hurdle.
Benavidez has recently indicated that a fight with Opetaia may not be realistic under current conditions.
A return to 175 also has obstacles. Dmitry Bivol is scheduled to defend his title against Michael Eifert, with further fights already under discussion, which could delay any immediate move.
Jose Benavidez Sr. is looking beyond the division, even as the most direct path at cruiserweight remains unresolved.
