Teofimo Lopez Says Dmitry Bivol Is Only Fighter Who Can Trouble David Benavidez

Lopez believes Bivol’s footwork and distance control could trouble Benavidez more than other opponents

Teofimo Lopez believes Dmitry Bivol is the fighter best equipped to challenge David Benavidez after Benavidez’s recent run through the light heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions. Lopez pointed toward Bivol’s footwork and ability to control distance as the biggest stylistic threat.

Benavidez stopped Gilberto Ramirez in six rounds earlier this month to capture the WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles, adding another division to his collection and strengthening the growing view that few fighters can deal with his pressure and output.

Teofimo said Bivol’s distance control could create problems that other opponents have failed to present.

“The only person that could probably challenge him would be Bivol, just because of the distance, said Teofimo to Fight Hub TV.

Teofimo also pointed to Benavidez’s February fight against David Morrell as evidence that movement and range can slow down the unbeaten champion at times.

“David Morrell gave him a tough fight, and that was just from the range,” said Teofimo about Morrell giving Benavidez issues in their fight in February 2025.

Bivol is expected to defend his unified light heavyweight titles against Michael Eifert on May 30 in Russia. The fight will be his first appearance since defeating Artur Beterbiev in their rematch last year to become the undisputed champion at 175 pounds.

Benavidez was later elevated from interim WBC champion to full titleholder after Bivol underwent back surgery instead of making a mandatory defense.

Early talks for a Benavidez-Bivol fight have already been reported, although recent comments from Argentine reporter Fernando Sabatini suggested negotiations have not progressed smoothly because of purse demands connected to Bivol’s side.

A fight between Benavidez and Bivol would match one of boxing’s busiest pressure fighters against one of its most disciplined movers. Lopez thinks that style matchup is the key. Most opponents stand in front of Benavidez too long. Bivol usually doesn’t.

Share on Facebook

Post on X