AUDIO: David Benavidez “I Know these Dudes they can’t take my power and Caleb Plant is no different”

VIDEO: David Benavidez “I Know these Dudes they can’t take my power and Caleb Plant is no different”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – March 22, 2023 – Undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “The Mexican Monster” Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant officially kicked off fight week events Wednesday with open media workouts before they meet in the SHOWTIME PPV main event this Saturday, March 25 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The media workout also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view telecast including unbeaten rising stars Jesus “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer, who meet in the co-main event, rising lightweight contenders Chris “Primetime” Colbert and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela, who duel in a lightweight showdown, and welterweight contenders Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos, who square off in the pay-per-view telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“This is a dream come true. There’s a lot at stake in this fight. I’ve been wanting an opportunity like this for a long, long time. The time is right, right now. This is the best time to make this fight happen. I’m ready to give the fans what they want to see. I’m going for the knockout on Saturday.

“I have tremendous power. Everybody I hit, get hurt. I end up breaking them down little by little. This is the most focused I’ve ever been for a fight. I know Caleb Plant is going to be a hard fighter moving around a lot. But whatever he brings to the table, I’m going to be ready for it. I’m looking for that knockout and I’m going to get it.

“I just want to push myself. This is pay-per-view. I want to be in the limelight. I want to continue having pay-per-view fights and to do that, I have to push and get the knockout. But I’m not going to go in there just throwing wild shots. I’m going to be very calculated. This is the best I’ve ever felt mentally, physically and emotionally. I was already a monster before, but Caleb Plant brought the ‘Mexican Monster’ out of me.

“It’s a dream come true to headline a SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Just coming in here and seeing my face all over the place and the ring in the entrance to the MGM Grand, I used to see that when Manny Pacquiao used to fight here. I used to tell myself that I’m going to get there one day. Now the day has come. It’s my turn to give these fans what they want to see and to be a pay-per-view star.

“I’m going to show what I’ve always shown. That I’m a monster and I can’t be stopped.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’m super excited. Thanks to all the fans showing up today. This is a big fight. Exactly what the fans want and what boxing needs. So, make sure you tune in Saturday because this is going to be big.

“I’ve been here before. I’ve been in big fights before. I know what this is all about and I know what it takes. Me and my team are fully prepared to get my hand raised on Saturday night.

“[Trainer Stephen Edwards] ‘Breadman’ came in last camp and we took things up to another level – you’ve seen that in my last performance. We took just a couple of weeks off and got back to work. So we’ve been building on top of that and it’ll show in the fight.

“I’m getting back to my old ways and the way my dad wants me to box. With ‘Breadman’ being here and echoing that and them going off each other, we’ve just got great chemistry.

“Getting my hand raised is all the motivation I need. It’s super motivating to have my family here with me. I’m gonna show that if you come up short or things don’t go your way, you gotta keep chasing and fighting for your dreams.”

JESUS RAMOS

“This is what boxing is all about. Good fighters fighting other good fighters. That brings out the crowd. That’s what this is about. We’re here to compete.

“It’s crazy that both Joey and I turned pro around the same time, and now we’re here. But that’s what boxing is all about, making the big fights. This is a great fight and it’s going to be entertaining for the fans.

“It’s always special sharing a card with my uncle. It’s a great card and to have my uncle and my whole family here means a lot. We did training camp together and now we’re here. It’s exciting and we’re both ready for this.

“I’m looking to make a big statement on Saturday night – that we’re here to stay. We’re fighting tough fighters, overcoming adversity and becoming better with each fight.

“I’m just focused on winning. If the knockout comes, it will come, but I have to win.”

JOEY SPENCER

“This sport is about testing yourself against the best that you can, and I feel like Jesus [Ramos] was one of the best fighters that I could get and that’s what happened. So that’s what I want to do for the rest of my career and as long as I do this – go in there and test myself physically and mentally and in a way that you can’t do outside this sport.

“It’s a great training camp and we’ve had some good looks and had some undefeated pros in my camp – tall southpaws to emulate the look that I need for Jesus. Everything is going well. I’ve put together a great game plan. I’m mentally and physically ready and I’m looking forward to showcasing that for the world to see.

“This is a familiar feeling for me – the feeling of fight week. I’ve never been this high up on a card before or in a fight of this magnitude, but I’ve been able to observe the really big fights over the past five or six years, so I’m definitely prepared to show that this is my time.

“All I know is that I have to get the win at all costs. Whatever it takes and whatever I have to do to get the win, I will do it. If I have to adjust, or if I have to change my gameplan – whatever I have to do, I’m prepared for all circumstances and ready to go out and get it done.”

CHRIS COLBERT

“I missed boxing so much. This is what I love to do. This is my life. It just feels good to be back and to be fulfilling one of my dreams. It was always a dream to fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Come Saturday night, that dream is going to come true and I’m going to show up and show out.

“I know that Valenzuela is a great fighter and he’ll be coming to fight, but I ain’t worried about nothing. In my last fight, I didn’t get the decision that I wanted, but everybody knows that I can really fight. Come Saturday night, I’m going to show that.

“I’m coming up in weight, so what fighter is not going to feel good coming up in weight? Saturday night will tell me how I really feel and I’ll see whether or not I can hang at this weight class. I feel like I can. I’ve been in the ring with 155-pounders and it’s nothing to me. I think I’ll be good.

“The time away from the ring just made me realize certain things that I didn’t realize when I was on my high horse because I was undefeated. I was winning and I was making a lot of money and doing things that I had never done before. But that’s never going to stop. I’m always going to be me. Always going to be ‘Primetime’. It’s going to be ‘Primetime’ on SHOWTIME PPV on March 25. I will be victorious.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“This week is a blessing. It’s a dream come true to be on the undercard with my brother David Benavidez. This is another opportunity to show and prove to myself and the world what I’m made of and what I can really do.

“I took this tough fight because I know what I can really do when I have my head in the game and when I have my stuff together. I’ll be putting on a show on Saturday night.

“I learned a lot from my loss to Edwin De Los Santos. I learned a lot about the game and about myself, my team and my family. I just learned so much and I’ve matured a lot. It was a blessing in disguise.

“Chris Colbert is a good fighter. He’s slick and he’s fast. I’m well prepared for that. I’ve trained for his style and I’ll be ready.

“I’m promising fireworks on Saturday night. The whole card from top to bottom is a great card. It’s going to be a good night of boxing and I will be victorious. My hand will be raised, there’s no doubt about that.”

CODY CROWLEY

“Vegas is home for me in terms of where I live, and also in terms of where I deserve to be, which is at the top of the boxing game with the legends. I’m paving my way one fight at a time and I feel like I’m right at home.

“Abel is a veteran. Hats off to him. He’s been in a lot of exciting fights at the top level. But he hasn’t been in there with Cody Crowley yet. Anything you’ve seen, it’s going to be totally different. I’m a different animal, a different beast. I suffocate my opponents to the point where they can’t breathe. Unless you’re willing to throw 150 to 200 punches a round, you’re not ready for Cody Crowley.

“My dad took his own life last summer. He was battling some demons just like I think every single human being in this room does on a daily basis. The greatest thing I can do to honor him is to not let those demons attack me like they attacked him. That means waking up every day no matter how hard it is, moving forward, opening my mouth, sharing my heart and letting people know what’s going on in my head. This fight, I’m raising money for suicide awareness in my father’s name so other people who need help can have resources to reach out and come out on the other side.

“In a perfect world for Cody Crowley, this fight ends in a shutout with me winning every single round until I suffocate him and take him out. I’m going for a stoppage. I’m a 15-round fighter. I’m still waiting for those days to come back. I hope when I go out there and show my conditioning and the excitement that I give fans a reason to get off their chairs and stand on their feet on fight night.”

ABEL RAMOS

“I’m excited for this fight. I’m enjoying it and I’m thankful to all the fans for showing up today.

“Crowley is a tough opponent and we’re expecting an exciting fight and we are ready to go. Whatever he brings, we’ll be ready.

“It’s motivating to be on the same card [as my nephew Jesus]. We went through training camp together and we’re here now. It’s going to be an exciting night for the Ramos family.

“Be sure you tune in, because I’m coming out with the victory.”

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ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

Benavídez vs. Plant will see undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “The Mexican Monster” Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant meet in a high-stakes, 12-round showdown for Benavídez’s Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title live on SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

In the co-main event, unbeaten rising stars Jesús “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer will go toe-to-toe in a 10-round super welterweight scuffle, as each fighter looks to make their claim as the future of the 154-pound division. The action will also see rising lightweights Chris “Primetime” Colbert and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela meet in a 10-round duel, while unbeaten welterweight contender Cody Crowley faces the hard-hitting Abel Ramos in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #BenavidezPlant, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT FIGHT WEEK KICKS OFF IN THE BOXING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD AHEAD OF SATURDAY’S STACKED SHOWTIME PPV^®CARD

LAS VEGAS – March 21, 2023 – SHOWTIME SPORTS^® boxing schedule is in full swing as the network televises its third live boxing event of March and eighth of the year this Saturday night when 168-pound stars David “The Mexican Monster” Benavídez and Caleb Plant meet in a high-stakes, 12-round showdown to settle their long-simmering feud live on SHOWTIME PPV. The showdown takes place at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME^® schedule across the first six months of 2023 features four matchups pitting top-5 ranked opponents against each other, including No. 1 Benavídez and No. 2 Plant at super middleweight, according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings.

As the two heated rivals put the finishing touches on their fight-night preparations, here are some news and notes from SHOWTIME SPORTS to gear up for one of the year’s biggest and best fights.

NON-STOP ACTION

SHOWTIME SPORTS is in the middle of one of its strongest schedules in the network’s 37-year history of televising live boxing. Beginning with the February 25 slugfest between Subriel Matias and Jeremias Ponce, the SHOWTIME schedule includes seven live telecasts in nine weeks, culminating with the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia mega-fight on April 22. The industry-leading schedule already includes some of the biggest names in the sport, including Benavídez, Plant, Davis, Garcia and Sebastian Fundora, with plans to add more star-power with blue-chippers Errol Spence Jr., Jermell and Jermall Charlo, Keith Thurman, Jaron Ennis, David Morrell,and Danny Garcia returning to action.

WALL TO WALL COVERAGE

There will be no shortage of content to feed fight fans’ appetite for Benavídez vs. Plant as SHOWTIME surrounds fight week with wall-to-wall, premium coverage. The full episode of the Emmy^® Award winning ALL ACCESS for Benavídez-Plant is now available on the SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions YouTube Channels. Special ALL ACCESS bonus clips are also being released on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel, including this clip of “The Mexican Monster” revealing a piece of his fight night attire. In addition, several YouTube Shorts, including this one of Plant showing off his impressive shoe collection, can be found on the “Shorts” tab on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel.

The SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel will also be home to live streaming coverage of all fight week events, including open media workouts on Wednesday, the final press conference Thursday, the official weigh-in Friday, and the post-fight press conference. Morning Kombat’s award-winning duo of Brian Campbell and Luke Thomas will serve as the hosts of the live streams on Thursday and Friday, as well as for the SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show on Saturday, which will include live coverage of preliminary bouts and analysis of the upcoming pay-per-view card. Unbeaten super bantamweight contender Kevin Gonzalez will battle Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin in a 10-round duel topping the countdown prelim show, while Cuban contender Orestes Velazquez takes on Argentina’s Marcelino Lopez in a 10-round super lightweight attraction in other action.

FROM SILVER SCREEN TO BOXING SCENE

The Benavídez family is used to performing on the big stage, but Jose Benavídez Jr. took that premise to a new extreme by starring in the blockbuster film Creed 3. Jose Jr., David’s older brother and a top contender in his own right, delivered a universally praised acting performance as a pivotal character in Creed 3 in his Hollywood debut. He plays the nemesis of Damian “Dame” Anderson, who becomes the central antagonist to the title character Adonis Creed. Away from the silver screen, Jose Jr. helped David prepare for the biggest fight of his career on Saturday. Jose Jr. knows that big-fight feeling well. He’s a former amateur star who challenged welterweight champion Terence Crawford for his WBO title in 2018. He also lost a majority decision to two-division world champion Danny Garcia last July on SHOWTIME but has rebounded nicely as boxer “Felix Chavez” in the third film of the popular Creed film series.

A FAMILIAR STAGE

MGM Grand Garden Arena will serve as the backdrop for Saturday night’s action, which is fitting since the iconic venue has played host to some of the greatest fighters who have stepped through the ropes. Since opening its doors in 1993, Floyd Mayweather, Jr., Oscar De La Hoya, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Mike Tyson, Roy Jones, Manny Pacquiao, Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder have all performed there. The venue is also familiar to SHOWTIME, as Saturday will mark the network’s 36^th live boxing telecast from MGM Grand Garden Arena. Its most recent telecast there was a notable one: Canelo Alvarez’s SHOWTIME PPV November 2021 against Plant. This will be Plant’s third fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena while Benavídez will be making his second appearance there.

BUCKING THE TREND

While Saturday’s main event has the potential to be unforgettable, the headliners aren’t the only ones generating attention. The stacked undercard is led by a pair of undefeated fighters in rising stars Jesús “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer who are making a statement about their willingness to face tough opposition rather than pad their records with light touches in agreeing to their 10-round super welterweight bout.

“This fight is proof that if two guys want to get in the ring at any stage in their career, even if it doesn’t necessarily follow the specific script that boxing usually follows, you can make a fight that’s outside of the box,” Spencer said during a press conference on February 22. Ramos concurred, saying, “This new generation is hungry. We want to fight each other. It’s going to bring boxing a lot of big fights and entertaining nights.”

The undercard also features an intriguing contest between two rising lightweights coming off their first career losses as Chris “Primetime” Colbert meets Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela and unbeaten welterweight contender Cody Crowley faces the hard-hitting Abel Ramos in the telecast opener in another well-matched encounter.

FROM SHOBOX^®TO PAY-PER-VIEW

Benavídez will be making his eighth appearance on SHOWTIME, having appeared on SHOBOX: The New Generation^®, SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION and SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® previously. Benavídez first appeared on SHOWTIME when he was 18 in the telecast opener of a 2015 SHOBOX, where he introduced himself to the boxing world by scoring a first-round KO over Felipe Romero. In the main event of a 2017 SPECIAL EDITION telecast, Benavídez became the youngest ever world champion in the super middleweight division with a split decision victory over Ronald Gavril. On that night, Benavídez joined a prestigious list of fighters who fought on SHOBOX and went on to win a world title – a list that has grown to 88 names after O’Shaquie Foster won a title in February. Benavídez has since appeared on five SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecasts and now will be making his SHOWTIME PPV debut.

Plant will headline his second SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday night and will be making his third overall appearance on the network after he also scored a victory in the opening bout of the SPECIAL EDITION telecast that was headlined by Benavídez-Gavril.

HOW MUCH YOU WANT TO BET?

DraftKings, the official sportsbook sponsor of Benavídez vs. Plant, views “The Mexican Monster” as a slight favorite on Saturday night. He is currently listed as a -330 favorite, while Plant is a +240 underdog.

Some of the brightest minds in boxing also weighed in with their fight night predictions, with many seeing this as a 50/50 fight that could go either way.

“It’s a 50-50 fight but I think Caleb on points,” said former two-time welterweight world champion Shawn Porter. “Something’s telling me Caleb is in the right place at the right time. I truly think he’s going to break down David, and he’s going to frustrate David.”

“I love the fight given the talent level of the two and the significance within the division,” said Kevin Iole of Yahoo! Sports. “Plant has everything he needs to win this fight, but I see Benavídez as something of a sleeping giant. He has enormous untapped potential and I believe this fight is coming at the right time for him. I see it as a nailbiter that Benavídez pulls out down the stretch with crisp combination punching.”

WHERE TO CATCH ALL THE ACTION

The four-fight pay-per-view event kicks off at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is widely available for purchase and live streaming in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME app on supported devices including Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, Amazon FireTV, Samsung Smart TV and LG Smart TV (2019 models and newer), Xbox One, Xfinity Flex, the Cox Wireless 4K Contour Stream Player and online at SHOWTIME.com. The event is also available for purchase in the U.S. via satellite and telco systems through DIRECTV^®, DISH, Sling TV and Vubiquity. The suggested retail price is $74.95 (SRP). In Canada, viewers can purchase and access the event via traditional cable and satellite distributors (Bell, Rogers, Shaw and SaskTel/TELUS). Liberty and Claro TV will offer the event in Puerto Rico. G&G Closed Circuit Events is the commercial distributor within the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada.

THE A TEAM

Veteran sportscaster and “The Last Stand” podcaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will once again handle the blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three more Hall of Famers round out the most decorated team in boxing – ringside reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst. Four-time Emmy^® Award winner David Dinkins, Jr. will executive-produce the telecast with Bob Dunphy, son of Hall of Fame boxing announcer Don Dunphy,directing.

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ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

SHOWTIME PPV^® COUNTDOWN SHOW LIVE STREAM TO FEATURE UNBEATEN CONTENDERS IN SEPARATE BOUTS LEADING UP TO LONG-AWAITED BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT EVENT THIS SATURDAY NIGHT

LAS VEGAS – March 21, 2023 – A pair of undefeated rising contenders will look to cement their status in their divisions with statement victories in action that will be live streamed on the SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN SHOW this Saturday, March 25 leading up to the highly-anticipated David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant event taking place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Unbeaten super bantamweight contender Kevin Gonzalez will battle Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin in a 10-round duel topping the show, while Cuban contender Orestes Velazquez takes on Argentina’s Marcelino Lopez in a 10-round super lightweight attraction. The live streaming presentation will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and will be hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell.

These fights will lead up to the SHOWTIME PPV telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT featuring super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez and Caleb Plant going toe-to-toe in the 12-round main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased through AXS.com.

The 25-year-old González (25-0-1, 13 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut on SHOWTIME in May 2022, earning a unanimous decision over Emanuel Rivera Nieves in their 10-round fight. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over former title challenger Ivan Morales in March 2021. González won a regional 122-pound title by stopping Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. He takes on the 30-year-old Sanmartin (34-6-1, 21 KOs), who most recently won a unanimous decision over Miguel Martinez in December 2022. The Arboletes, Colombia-native has challenged current featherweight champion Mauricio Lara and current super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete during a pro career that dates back to 2011.

A native of Cuba now residing in Miami, Velazquez (6-0, 6 KOs) has stopped each opponent he’s faced since turning pro in October 2020 following a prolific amateur career. The 30-year-old added four victories in 2022, including most recently stopping Guillermo Leonel Crocco in the first round of their December 2022 clash. He will be opposed by Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Lopez (37-2-1, 22 KOs), who enters this fight having won his last five outings, including triumphs over veteran contenders Pablo Cesar Cano and Breidis Prescott. The 36-year-old has a 5-1 record stateside, with his only blemish coming via-split decision against Michael Perez in 2017.

The non-televised undercard lineup will be highlighted by a battle of unbeatens as Las Vegas super featherweight prospect Demler Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs) battles Arizona’s Jesus Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. Rounding out the action is super middleweight prospect Daniel Blancas (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round attraction facing Texas-native Nicholas Molina (4-1-1, 4 KOs), super featherweight prospect Robert Meriwether III (3-0, 2 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Jesus Perez (14-15-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round fight, and super featherweight prospect Dorian Khan Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round fight.

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ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

Benavídez vs. Plant will see undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant meet in a high-stakes, 12-round showdown for Benavídez’s Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title live on SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Boxing’s Top Fighters, Experts and More Give Their Thoughts and Predictions On David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant Blockbuster Event As Fight Week Begins In Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (March 20, 2023) – Boxing’s top fighters, media members and more weighed in on the upcoming blockbuster fight between undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “The Mexican Monster’’ Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant ahead of their 12-round showdown headlining live on SHOWTIME PPV this Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Of the 29 people polled for their predictions – 21 of them are forecasting victory for Benavidez in a close and compelling fight, while five favor Plant, two were unable to pick a winner, plus one who said matching these two superstars was a clear victory for boxing.

The oddsmakers at DraftKings have the fight closer than displayed by those polled, with Benavidez placed as the favorite at -330 (a $330 bet placed will win $100) and Plant +240 ($100 bet placed wins $240) while the Bet MGM Sports Book has Benavidez -275 and Plant +225.

Here is what those closest to the fight game had to say about the Benavidez-Plant matchup:

JERMELL CHARLO, Undisputed Super Welterweight World Champion

“I’m rocking with Plant. Plant has the boxing skills. Benavidez is just one-dimensional. He’s going to come forward and put a lot of pressure on Plant. But styles make fights and so this is going to be a good one. But I’m rocking with Plant.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA, Recent winner on SHOWTIME of Interim WBC Featherweight Title

“I’m rooting for Benavidez all the way. I see him knocking (Plant) out in the eighth or ninth round.”

SHAWN PORTER, Former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

“It’s a 50/50 fight but I think Caleb takes it. Something’s telling me Caleb is in the right place at the right time. I truly think he’s going to break down David, and he’s going to frustrate David. He’s bringing a lot to the ring that David has never been up against. David’s spoiled with his pressure. He breaks everyone down, but I don’t think he’ll be able to do that to Caleb, so I’m picking Caleb in a late-round stoppage.”

AMANDA SERRANO, Undisputed Featherweight World Champion

“I usually don’t like to make predictions for fights. You just never know in boxing. However, I am going to make one this time for Benavidez vs. Plant. I really do like Plant. I think he is a really nice guy, great fighter. However, for this fight, I have to go with Benavidez.”

REY VARGAS, WBC Featherweight World Champion

“Plant-Benavidez will be a very even fight, 50-50. Strategy will be the key factor for whoever comes out on top. Plant has his speed and waist movement. Benavidez with his explosiveness and his strength. I truly believe it is 50/50. I have to lean on the Mexican side, because of that strength and explosiveness.”

GEORGE KAMBOSOS, JR., Former Unified Lightweight World Champion

“This is a 50/50 matchup. From my point of view Caleb Plant has had better experience and looks in great shape. We saw in his last fight he does have that nice snap, that power and he will definitely out-box Benavidez. I don’t think he will knock him out, but he can hurt him. I’m going with Caleb Plant on a close points decision.”

CALEB TRUAX, Former IBF Super Middleweight World Champion

“This is a great super middleweight fight and a big win for boxing. I see it going similarly to Canelo-Plant. Plant will have success early due to his feet and jab, and then Benavidez’s pressure and power get him the late stoppage. I’m pulling for Plant to win, being that he is a former opponent of mine.”

DAVID MORRELL, Undefeated WBA Super Middleweight Champion

“It’s a 50/50 fight. Benavidez has power, but he has never fought against someone with moves like Plant, who will make life hard for him with his speed. I would love to pick a winner, but I just can’t, considering how even this fight truly is.”

ANDY RUIZ, JR., Former Unified Heavyweight World Champion

“I got my money on Benavidez. He is just a bigger fighter, a stronger guy, ‘The Mexican Monster’. Nothing against Caleb, he is a warrior and we all risk our lives in the ring, but I just feel like Benavidez will be too much.”

YORDENIS UGAS, Former WBA Welterweight World Champion

“I was initially going to say 50/50, but now I’m going to lean in favor of Benavidez, 55-45 in his favor.”

VLADIMIR SHISHKIN, Undefeated Super Middleweight Contender

“This is a great fight between two elite fighters in the division. I favor Benavidez, but Plant showed improvement after the Canelo fight and that means he is coming to win. I will not be overly surprised if Plant is able to score a points upset over Benavidez.”

BOB SANTOS, Sports Illustrated 2022 Trainer of the Year

“I think Benavidez vs. Plant is going to be a tremendous fight in the early rounds. Plant will be having some success moving and boxing, but towards the middle rounds Benavidez will take over and win the fight. That said, I think it’s going to be a tremendous fight and both guys’ stock is going to go up.”

KEITH IDEC, Boxing Scene

“Benavidez by 11th-round TKO. Plant’s intelligence, movement and skill will enable him to make the most of their fight competitive. The relentless Benavidez pressure and volume punching will eventually wear Plant down, though, and lead to a stoppage in one of the championship rounds.”

STEPHEN JACKSON, Former NBA World Champion and “ALL THE SMOKE” Co-Host

“Plant is coming off one of the biggest wins of his career. A big knockout after losing to Canelo. He’s in a good space right now. Benavidez has been looking for a fight, he’s one of the dangerous fighters around right now so it’s going to be a good fight. Caleb is still on his high and he has to win this fight to get back to Canelo. Benavidez has been calling out Canelo for years and this is a stepping-stone. If I have to lean toward a side because you put a gun to my head, I’m going to go with Benavidez.”

ROBERT LITTAL, Black Sports Online

“I believe this is truly a 50/50 fight with an amazing clash of styles between someone they call the ‘Mexican Monster’ and the other they call ‘Sweethands.’ In the end I think Caleb Plant survives an early assault from Benavidez and uses the knowledge from the Canelo fight and puts on a boxing clinic down the stretch to win a unanimous decision.”

GREG BEACHAM, Associated Press

“I like Benavidez by late-round stoppage. His toughest opponent has usually been himself, but I still think he can reach his full potential. Benavidez should be motivated by a talented, confident veteran opponent like Plant, who could easily take this fight if Benavidez shows up unfocused or unprepared. Benavidez’s strength and talent are the determining factors for me in an excellent matchup.”

MORGAN CAMPBELL, New York Times:

“Benavidez by very close decision. Might be split decision, might be majority decision, but I think he’ll win seven rounds.”

LARGE, Barstool Sports

“Although both fighters possess both attributes, I still see this one as strength versus speed. And Benavidez’s power will get to Plant by the late rounds. Benavidez by KO Round 8-10.”

PAUL PIERCE, Former NBA World Champion and “Ticket & The Truth” Co-Host

“I’m going with Plant. That’s my man. I met Caleb Plant – I’ve sat with him at a fight and I had a moment with him so I’m going with Caleb Plant. I ain’t gonna lie though, Benavidez is a beast.”

KEVIN IOLE, Yahoo! Sports

“David Benavidez W12 Caleb Plant: I love the fight given the talent level of the two and the significance within the division. Plant has everything he needs to win this fight, but I see Benavidez as something of a sleeping giant. He has enormous untapped potential and I believe this fight is coming at the right time for him. I see it as a nailbiter that Benavidez pulls out down the stretch with crisp combination punching.”

DAN RAFAEL, Fight Freaks Unite

“It’s an outstanding matchup but I think Benavidez will win. Plant is a good boxer but Benavidez is a brutal puncher with excellent power and an excellent chin. Plant may have some success boxing for stretches in a good fight, but Benavidez will break him down and stop him late.”

DEMARCUS COUSINS – Four-Time NBA All-Star

“I do like Plant. I question his power, but Plant is a very skilled boxer. I don’t know though, I might have to go the other way with this one [and pick Benavidez]. Benavidez is a monster.”

JOE SANTOLIQUITO, Ring Magazine

“I like Benavidez. I think he’s simply too big, and too strong for Plant. Benavidez knows the stakes and will come in acutely prepared. Plant will try to out-box Benavidez and get the fight into the later rounds, but with that comes some risk. Benavidez wins by late-round stoppage.”

ADRIANA NORIEGA, Fox Deportes

“Benavidez vs. Plant is a great, 50/50 fight. Two contrasting fights that make for a very interesting clash. On one side, you have ‘The Mexican Monster’ with the physical advantages, power and aggressive style that defines him. I expect Plant to use his sweet hands, his timing, his speed and his footwork to potentially frustrate Benavidez. If the fight ends early, I expect Benavidez to win. If it goes to the judges, Plant has the better chance in my book.”

MICHAEL ROSENTHAL, Boxing Junkie

“I have a lot of respect for Plant, who I believe is an elite athlete with an elite skill set. And he showed us against Anthony Dirrell that he’s no slouch in the power department. I just think that Benavidez has too much firepower for him. He’s an offensive juggernaut, a guy who breaks down opponents with ferocious, relentless pressure that has resulted in 23 knockouts in 26 fights. Plant will have some success early, but Benavidez will land more and more punches as the fight progresses and score a late stoppage. Benavidez KO 9.

CLAUDIA TREJOS. DAZN/PROBOXTV/BYB

“This will be an explosive fight. Benavidez with the advantage of height and advantage of youth will use his skills to make Plant fall into his fighting style. We can never discount Plant’s grit – a boxer who has proven his warrior spirit inside and outside the ring. Benavidez always does his homework and has power to go along with it – a win against Plant puts him on track for the highly anticipated fight against Canelo. I can see Benavidez taking this opportunity to show off his complete tool set. Benavidez by KO in the later rounds.”

ABE GONZALEZ, Big Fight Weekend

“David Benavidez versus Caleb Plant is a dream fight for the purist. I can see Caleb Plant frustrating Benavidez early with his boxing ability and movement. However, in the later rounds, after those Benavidez punches start to add up, he will slow Plant down and stop him around the ninth or 10th round.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Benavidez-Plant: Plenty To Prove

By Norm Frauenheim –

The proof has been unfolding for years. First, David Benavidez had to prove it to himself. Now, he has to prove it to everybody else.

The journey from fat kid to feared fighter, from anonymity to stardom has been a process that almost looks inevitable just days before it undergoes its most significant test yet against Caleb Plant on March 25 in a Showtime pay-per-view bout at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand.

But it hasn’t been easy, much less predictable. Growing-up never is, especially when the lesson plans are subjected to all of the twisted dynamics and drama that rule boxing. Within those ropes, there’s no playground. Just chaos.

At 26, however, Benavidez looks as if he was born for it. Beneath the baby fat, he discovered his identity. A fighter’s instincts were always there, part of his DNA. He’s a natural, comfortable with the craziness and more confident than ever that he can control the violence.

“I’m at the beginning stages of my prime,’’ Benavidez said during a media workout Tuesday in Burien WA, a Seattle suburb and home far from the streets where he grew up in west Phoenix. “After this fight, the sky is the limit.’’

Plant has other ideas, of course. He’s about four years older. At 30, he’s squarely in his prime. He’s also been on boxing’s biggest stage in a stoppage loss to PPV star Canelo Alvarez in November 2021. That’s a place Benavidez has yet to see, yet to experience. Plant says he’s had to learn and adjust in ways that Benavidez has not. He calls it an advantage.

Maybe.

Maybe not.

It’s a key question in a super-middleweight fight that has been brewing for a long time. In the promotional media, it’s been dubbed Bad Blood. The Bad is genuine. The Blood is likely.

“I’ve been training for this fight for three-and-a-half months,’’ said Benavidez, who has vowed to knock out Plant in what he promises will be a painful stoppage to a long-running trash-talk exchange that has been over-the top, even by boxing standards.

Truth is, Benavidez has been training for Plant for longer than mere months. More like years.

Besides all of the noisy trash, Benavidez’ volatile career has been unusual. He’s unbeaten, yet he lost the World Boxing Council title twice, first because of a positive test for cocaine and then a failure to make the 168-pound weight.

If not for that, he might have already experienced what Plant says Benavidez has not. He might have already fought Canelo. He might already be a long-reigning champ.

“If not for issues losing his titles, he’d be on the pound-for-pound list,’’ Plant trainer Stephen “Breadman’’ Edwards told Sean Zittel in a compelling interview for FightHype.

From Terence Crawford to Naoya Inoue, Artur Beterbiev and newcomer Shakur Stevenson, Benavidez’ 26-0 record and knockout rate – 23 KOs – compares favorably to any other on the various pound-for-pound lists.

A place in the pound-for-debate is among the stakes against Plant. So, too, is a possible shot at Canelo, who is coming off wrist surgery against Brit John Ryder in a tune-up on May 6 at home in Jalisco, Mexico. Canelo-Ryder was formally announced Tuesday, the same day Benavidez in Washington and Plant in Vegas did their media workouts.

Coincidence? Probably. Still, the Benavidez-Plant showdown has been designated as a bout that will lead to a so-called mandatory shot at Canelo, the undisputed champion at 168.

“The winner gets Canelo, or so they say,’’ said Benavidez, who has been calling out Canelo for just about as long as he’s been trash-talking Plant.

If anything, Benavidez has taken the edge off his talk about Canelo. He complimented him for agreeing to fight at home, his first in Mexico in more than a decade. A possible date and a big paycheck against Canelo are part of the motivation, both for Benavidez and Plant.

Before opening bell, however, Canelo is almost secondary to the bitter rivalry and all that it means. For both Benavidez and Plant, the bout carries a burden of proof. Edwards called it a test of character in his FightHype interview.

The maturing Benavidez knows that. He’s using it as just one more source of motivation. In saying that Benavidez lacks big-fight experience, Plant left questions that are being asked by fans and media. Benavidez has heard them. Can he deal with adversity? Can he adjust?

Benavidez repeatedly counters with facts and figures that he says the doubters ignore.

“I throw punches in bunches and I land them at a 46-percent rate,’’ he said. “Nobody ever mentions that. I’ve never lost two rounds in a row. Every man I’ve fought, I’ve hurt.

“If you guys don’t think I know what I’m doing, you’re stupid.’’

Next task:

Prove it.

Oscar Valdez Update

15 Rounds has confirmed that former two-time champion Oscar Valdez Jr. expects to be back on a Top Rank card featuring Devin Haney-Vasiliy Lomachenko planned for May 20 at Vegas’ MGM Grand.

An injury suffered in training forced Valdez to withdraw from a bout for a vacant junior-lightweight title against fellow Mexican Emanuel Navarrete at Desert Diamond Arena on Feb. 3 in Glendale AZ, a Phoenix suburb.

Navarrete, a former featherweight champion, went on to win the WBO ‘s 130-pound title in a wild ninth-round stoppage of late stand-in Liam Wilson of Australia.

Valdez, who was at ringside and joined Navarrete in the ring after his controversial stoppage of Wilson, said he hurt his ribs in a freak accident — a fall down some stairs.

After the planned May 20 bout, Valdez and Navarrete are expected to fight later in the year on ESPN, which reported Friday that Valdez is expected to face Adam Lopez in a rematch.

DERRICK JAMES, BOB SANTOS, SUGARHILL STEWARD AND BUDDY MCGIRT QUOTES PREVIEWING DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT

LAS VEGAS – March 16, 2023 – Top trainers and boxing minds, Derrick James, Bob Santos, SugarHill Steward and Buddy McGirt, put their collective wisdom together to preview and breakdown the upcoming showdown between super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez and Caleb Plant, a 50-50 matchup, during a virtual media roundtable on Thursday as some of boxing’s best strategists expect an intriguing clash of styles and personalities in the long-awaited showdown.

Benavidez vs. Plant headlines a SHOWTIME PPV event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on Saturday, March 25 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Here is what the trainers had to say Thursday:

DERRICK JAMES, Trainer of Errol Spence Jr., Jermell Charlo and Frank Martin

“This is an interesting fight. I like both of those guys and I’ve known them for a while. It comes down to who can take it. Who can implement what they do best? Both have fast hands and are athletic. It’s going to come down to fortitude.

“Both guys share the weakness of depth. Because they’ve never had to dig themselves out of trouble. That’s what we don’t know about, because we haven’t really seen them have to do that. It may not be their weakness, but looking at it from the outside, we don’t really know.

“When I’ve had a fighter who has bad blood with an opponent like Benavidez and Plant, I had to make one strategy for fighting and one for boxing. Whatever he felt, I had to coach him from that perspective during the fight.

“A lot of times if I see something brewing in the opposite corner where the father might be getting emotional, I might say something really loud so that he can hear me. Something the opposite of what I really want, just to ruffle them up. That can make the father and son question each other. It’s very hard to be on the same page.

“If I was fighting David Benavidez, I would do my best to not let him be himself. I would do whatever I could to offset him. The best way is probably with movement. Because whenever he stands in front of you, it’s a bad day. You better practice holding and clinching, because if you don’t, it’s going to be a long night.

“If I’m training Benavidez, I’d tell him he has to pressure Caleb. But you have to watch out, because Caleb sets traps. You have to back him down at a distance and hope that he’ll succumb to the pressure. Caleb is a great counter puncher and has great defense. You have to stay two steps ahead of him.”

BOB SANTOS, Trainer of Mario Barrios, Alberto Puello, Hector Luis Garcia and Carlos Adames

“I know both guys very well. The bad blood is real. I’ve been cordial with both guys and I’ve been in the middle of it sometimes. We’ve all known these two have been on a head-on collision course.

“I think it’s going to be brutal at times in there. But if Benavidez gets too intense, he could get into some trouble. We’ll see how it plays out.

“People are going to be surprised with Benavidez, because he’s chose to fight the way he has, so that he can make a name for himself. But he’s really a savant. He’s a lot smarter in the ring than people think. I think he can do more things than Caleb Plant can in the end, but the only thing I’m worried about is how much he’s talked about going for the knockout. If he stays within himself, I like him to break Plant down.

“I think both of their stocks are going to rise in this fight. Eventually, Benavidez will force Plant to fight. He’s going to go through the fire and I’m interested to see how he reacts.

“The father-son, trainer-fighter dynamic in training camp is a good thing, because they know how to push their kid. The problems come from guiding the corner. When I was with Robert and Ruben Guerrero, we were fighting Danny Garcia and we were up in the rounds, but after Robert got hit with a good shot, I thought his dad got emotional and stopped caring about winning the rounds. Caleb can turn things up in a way that could potentially make the Benavidez corner panic.

“I would tell Caleb to keep turning Benavidez. He’s gotta use his angles. I’d be MMA all night clinching and holding with him, because you can’t let him get comfortable.

“For Benavidez, it’s all about controlled aggression. He really can’t stand Caleb. He wants to hurt the guy. If I’m the trainer I’m stressing that you have to be methodical. Work behind the jab and control the distance.”

SUGARHILL STEWARD, Trainer of Tyson Fury, Anthony Dirrell and Vladimir Shishkin

“This is one of the biggest fights in boxing right now. This is one of those fights that really interests me. You have two former world champions, two young fighters that are at the top of their game. As we all know, there’s some bad blood. There’s more than just a fight on the line. It’s something personal.

“Both of these fighters are at the top. They both have fast hands and they both have the ability to knock each other out. It just makes it such an exciting fight at 168 pounds. They’ve both been asking for the best, and here you go, we’ve got two of the best right here.

“With Anthony Dirrell, we had two different game plans for Benavidez and Plant. With Benavidez, it was to box him and to be strong. With Caleb, it wasn’t to box him it was to pressure him more because he’s a good boxer himself and he has beautiful movement. I didn’t want Anthony to box him. Anthony didn’t want to box him either. It was two different plans but with these two guys together, it’s an electrifying fight because they both can do both things – box and pressure. It’s whoever sticks to their game plan.

“There’s going to be a lot of emotions in this one. I think both of them are going to be emotional because they are going to bring it out of each other. It’s about whoever can control themselves. Honestly, it should get a little bit wild in there. They are going to let those emotions out.

“My advice for Caleb would be to box. Use your superior movement and angles. Don’t look for a knockout punch because things happen in boxing when you’re not looking for something. You can catch him off guard. Caleb does that very well, as he did with Anthony Dirrell.

“My advice for Benavidez would be to know how to cut the ring off. David cuts the ring off well but that’s the most important thing. Try to make Caleb move the way David wants to move him, and then it’s about timing. David is fast, he’s big, he can jab, but I believe he has to cut off the ring to slow the pace down.”

BUDDY MCGIRT, Trainer of Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and former trainer of Arturo Gatti and Antonio Tarver

“I think this is going to be a great fight and something that boxing needs. You have two of the best in the division and I personally think that this should open the door for more great fights to happen in boxing. This is opening the door and letting people know that real fighters still fight each other.

“You have to be able to control the bad blood. You can’t go in there with one thing in mind, just trying to knock him out. You can walk into something you might not want to. You have to take it and use it to your advantage and use it in a way that’s going to make the fight easier. If you go in there trying to gun him out, you’ll wind up getting gunned out.

“Father and son combinations are all different. It’s all about how if things aren’t going according to their plan, how can David and Jose Sr. get on the same page in that one minute in between rounds?

“If I was training Caleb, one of the things I would be telling him is that you can’t give him the same look every round. When Benavidez starts throwing his combinations, you have to punch back to break his rhythm. You can’t just let him get into a rhythm because then it’s going to be a long night. There’s an old saying, ‘You can’t punch and block punches at the same time.’ If Benavidez is throwing punches, throw one right down the pike to try to break his rhythm and give him different looks.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

DAVID BENAVIDEZ AND CALEB PLANT MEDIA WORKOUTS QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – March 15, 2023 – Undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “The Mexican Monster’’ Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant held separate media workouts on Tuesday to preview their high-stakes, 12-round showdown headlining live on SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Benavídez held his media workout at his gym in the Seattle area, while Plant showed off his skills in Las Vegas with just over a week until they meet in the ring on fight night.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Benavidez was joined by stablemate and lightweight contender Jose Valenzuela, who faces Chris Colbert on the pay-per-view undercard, and his father and trainer Jose Benavidez Sr at Benavidez Sports Boxing Gym in Burien, Washington. Plant’s workout also included his renowned trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards as they hosted media at DLX Boxing in Plant’s adopted hometown of Las Vegas.

Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“Some people don’t understand that I’m the most accurate puncher in this weight class. I’ve had 23 knockouts in 26 fights. I’ve hurt every man I’ve been in the ring with and Caleb Plant is no different.

“You can see that every time Caleb is in the ring with a power puncher, he’s not comfortable. He beat Jose Uzcategui but he was hurt in the fight and then Canelo hurt him. Even Anthony Dirrell hit him with good shots, and he’s not a hitter like that.

“I’ve got the power and I feel like I’m faster. I just have to get my feet in the right position, because he’s going to be moving a lot. I think he has a little bit more confidence after beating Dirrell though, so we’ll see if he wants to trade with me.

“Every time I step into this gym I give my all. I’ve got a great team here with me. Everybody has done their part and made me feel comfortable. I’m just so motivated by the people who think that I can’t handle a boxer and I’m ready to prove them wrong.

“I’m a big guy and I throw punches in bunches. I’m ready to mix it up in there. Every question you all have will be answered on March 25.

“My jab is better than Caleb’s. He doesn’t really have a power jab, but I hurt people with my jab. I’ve cut eyelids open with it. I’m very comfortable in there. At the end of the day, what is he gonna do when he has to sit there and fight? I’m gonna get him on the ropes. It’s a matter of when, not if.

“Emotion, especially anger, is a great motivator to train. The people who are telling me not to be emotional, haven’t laced up the gloves before. I couldn’t be more ready. I leave all my emotions outside of the ring when it’s time to go to work.

“This is pay-per-view and we’re giving the people what they want to see. I’m ready to give the people whatever they want. This is the most confident I’ve ever been because this is the hardest I’ve ever worked. That’s why I’ve been calling for these big fights, because I’ve known since I was a little kid sparring world champions that when I’m put in an uncomfortable situation, the best comes out of me.”

CALEB PLANT

“The key to this fight is just being myself. That’s what’s getting my hand raised. I’m hungry for this. This is a big moment and a moment I’ve worked a long time to reach. I’m going to make the most of it.

“I feel really good. Last camp we brought in ‘Breadman’ and we had a lot of great chemistry with the whole team. He’s easy to get along with and he just expects me to work hard. That’s right up our alley and that’s what we like to do. He brought some of that Philly grit with him and helped reiterate a lot of things that my dad [co-trainer Richie Plant] had been trying to instill in me.

“Different people handle things in different ways. I’m cool, calm and collected. I’m focused and I’ve had a great camp. We’re going into this fight 100%. I can only speak for my team, but we’re ready to handle business.

“If Benavidez wants to come forward, then he should just handle his business how he sees fit. That’s what I’m going to do on March 25. We’re going to get in there, roll the dice and see what happens.

“My power has always been there but I’ve been getting more back to my roots. ‘Breadman’ and my dad have a lot of similarities in how they want me to box and train. With some of it, I’m getting back to my old ways, but it’s combined with the new things that ‘Breadman’ is bringing to the table and teaching me.

“This is one of the biggest fights that can be made in boxing and I’m just looking forward to everyone being a part of it.

“I’d love to right a wrong and get the rematch with Canelo Alvarez, but right now I’m just focused on the fight in front of me. Nothing happens until business is handled March 25.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I learned from my mistakes and I’m gonna come back right. Chris Colbert is a smart fighter and I think it’s a perfect matchup for this card.

“I know what I did wrong and I accepted it. I have to keep moving forward. I’ve got a great team around me and we stayed positive.

“I wasn’t looking for an easy way out coming in off a loss. I didn’t get here the easy way, so I’m going to keep doing it the hard way.

“I’m gonna be bringing in a new set of skills. I’m ready to show the cat-like reflexes. I’ll be on my toes fighting intelligently. I’m gonna be sharp.

“I think David is going to stop Caleb around the eighth round. He’s got the skills, the heart and the determination to finish the fight.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Benavidez’s Father and Trainer

“This training camp is very special because our whole family has been together. It’s super special and we’re super motivated. It’s a great atmosphere here.

“We’re training hard not just to win the fight, but to look spectacular and get to even bigger fights. I believe that David is gonna stop Caleb Plant in the eighth or ninth round.”

STEPHEN “BREADMAN” EDWARDS, Plant’s Trainer

“It’s going to take a great fighter to win this fight on March 25. I believe Caleb has the potential to become a great fighter and March 25 will help determine that.

“Caleb’s ability to absorb information really translates well in the ring. Both of these guys are in their prime and there’s a lot at stake. You have to be great to win a fight like this. This fight has a little bit of Oscar De La Hoya vs. Felix Trinidad and Floyd Mayweather vs. Diego Corrales. Caleb being the Oscar and Floyd and David being the Corrales and Trinidad.

“When it comes to the relationship Caleb and I have, we didn’t have to work hard to get chemistry, it just came. I like the way he goes about things and vice versa. He was willing to listen. He’s a hard worker and very organized and has a strong support system. He does what he needs to do. I don’t have to pull teeth with him. All I have to do is coach to his strengths.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

VIDEO: ALL ACCESS: David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant | Full Episode (TV14) | SHOWTIME PPV

JESUS RAMOS JR. AND ABEL RAMOS PHOENIX MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

PHOENIX – March 1, 2023 – Unbeaten rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos and veteran welterweight contender Abel Ramos held a media workout in Phoenix, Ariz., on Wednesday as the Casa Grande-natives prepare for their respective showdowns on the David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant SHOWTIME PPV^® undercard on Saturday, March 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Jesus, Jr., will battle fellow unbeaten Joey Spencer in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event, while Abel will take on undefeated Cody Crowley in the pay-per-view telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

At just 21-years-old, Jesus, Jr., (19-0, 15 KOs) has compiled an impressive record and achieved contender status by displaying potent power and boxing acumen heading into perhaps his toughest test to date against the unbeaten Spencer. For his uncle Abel (27-5-2, 21 KOs), March 25 is another opportunity for him to score a signature upset, having stopped former champion Omar Figueroa, Jr., in May 2021 in addition to a final round KO of Bryant Perrella in February 2020, turning the tide in a fight Abel trailed at the time of the stoppage.

Here is what Jesus Jr. and Abel, along with their trainer, Jesus Jr’s father and Abel’s brother Jesus Ramos, Sr., had to say Wednesday from Central Boxing Gym in Phoenix:

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“This is a huge opportunity for me. I feel like so far in my career I’ve taken big steps and faced tough opponents, and this won’t be an exception. It’s going to be a great fight.

“I feel like I do a lot of things well. My reach, my conditioning, the body shots that I throw, it’s all going to be important on fight night.

“I’ve been working hard with my strength and conditioning coach. We’re working on being more explosive and throwing more punches. We want to really increase the pace of the fight.

“I feel even stronger now than before my last fight. We’ve had time to make the necessary adjustments, so my focus is better than ever. I’m ready for this.

“I do feel like I’ve fought on some big stages getting to this moment, but no matter what, I can’t let the size of the moment get to me. This is my childhood dream. Now it’s become a reality and on March 25 I’m going to enjoy every moment of it.

“Representing Arizona means a lot. There’s not a lot of athletes or big names coming out of Casa Grande. If I can bring a world title back to Casa Grande, that would mean everything to me. That’s the main goal. I want to pave the way for the next generation, not necessarily just in boxing, but whatever they dream of.

“This is going to be fireworks, and we’re here to win. Whatever it takes. We’re winning on the night. Ideally, it’s going to be a stoppage in the later rounds.

“I’m here to make the best fights, and the most entertaining fights as well. I’m here to stay.”

ABEL RAMOS

“I’m feeling really good. Training has been going great and I’m in top condition. We’re getting into those last couple weeks and getting everything sharpened up for the ring.

“I hope the fans get to see all the hard work that we put in here in Arizona pay off on March 25. I hope they appreciate the work ethic that we have and the excitement that we bring to boxing.

“Jesus, Jr., and I motivate each other. We’ve been training together for a long time and we motivate each other every day.

“We give each other pointers, but Jesus, Jr., is a kid who works hard. He doesn’t need much to get him going.

“The key for this fight is going to be to use the experience that I have and every trick that I know. I’m expecting an exciting fight.

“I’ve fought everybody since the beginning. I have a lot of rounds inside of the ring and I just have to make sure that I use everything I know in this fight.

“I really think that my resume and the opposition that I’ve fought, compared to Crowley, is going to be the biggest factor. I’ve got way more experience and it’s going to show on March 25. I’m predicting a win however it comes.”

JESUS RAMOS SR., Jesus, Jr.’s Father and Trainer, Abel’s Brother and Trainer

“It’s a great feeling to see Jesus, Jr., in this position. He put in all the hard work to get to where he is now. I’m really proud of him.

“My son is a very disciplined fighter and he’s very smart in the ring. I don’t think the pressure is going to get to him. He’s excited about the fight, but he’s focused too.

“I have to be hard on Jesus, Jr., because I don’t want to see him bleed in the ring. I have to train him hard. That’s what motivates me to keep pushing him harder.

“Jesus, Jr., is very close to that top level. He’s got good skills, he’s very strong and loves boxing. I really think he’s very close to a title shot.

“Abel is training really hard and he’s very motivated. This is a great matchup for him but also a make-or-break fight. I think it’s a perfect clash of styles to favor Abel. He has to win..

“If Crowley comes forward like he says he will, then, I think we can stop him in the middle rounds.

“I think the Jesus Jr. vs. Joey Spencer fight will be a more technical fight because both fighters know when to be cautious. I think toward the end of the fight, Joey Spencer is going to fade. That’s what we’ve been training for. We’re ready to go the distance and we’ll see what happens.

“March 25 is going to be a very special night for the Ramos family.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

AUDIO: BENAVIDEZ – PLANT SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE

VIDEO: BENAVIDEZ – PLANT SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT SHOWTIME PPV^® UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – February 22, 2023 – Fighters competing on the David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, March 25 took part in a virtual press conference Wednesday before they step into the ring in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features unbeaten rising stars Jesús “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer going toe-to-toe in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event, plus rising lightweights Chris “Primetime” Colbert and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela meet in a 10-round duel, while unbeaten welterweight contender Cody Crowley faces the hard-hitting Abel Ramos in the telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“I’m excited to be here. This is going to be a great card and a huge night. It’s a dream come true to fight at MGM Grand. I’m preparing myself to be my best on March 25, and I’m sure Joey is as well. I think this fight is really going to leave a mark on both of our careers and that people will really remember this one.

“This is not the kind of fight that people our age are taking. I wanted to take this challenge. I’m thankful to Joey for stepping up as well and I can’t wait.

“I was surprised that Joey asked to fight me. Guys usually go other routes and look for different fights. But I was excited. I knew what kind of fight this would be. This is a big fight on a huge card. That’s exactly what I imagined.

“Joey looked good in his last fight. I don’t expect him to be the same fighter against me. I’ve had step up fights like he had too, and I went back and made improvements. I’m sure he’ll do the same, but we’ll be ready.

“My dad [trainer Jesus Ramos Sr.] has made a lot of sacrifices and I’m very proud of everything he’s accomplished. He had to work and train us, because it was the only way to keep the gym afloat. These are the kind of fights that we dreamed of. This is a huge fight and I’m proud of where we’re at right now, but we still have a lot more work to do.

“Who knows what happens on March 25, this could be the start of a big rivalry. It’s going to be entertaining and do a lot for our careers. This only catapults us to the next step towards the bigger fights. We both want to be world champions.

“This new generation is hungry. We want to fight each other. It’s going to bring boxing a lot of big fights and entertaining nights.”

JOEY SPENCER

“I’m just enjoying every minute of this process. What excites me about this fight is that people are excited by it. Growing up as a boxing fan since I was eight years old, I looked up to the young guys who were still proving themselves. Those fights in their career when they first started fighting those big fights were significant. I just remember watching those fights so it excites me to have this first fight have significant meaning for the rest of our careers.

“I actually asked for this fight in particular. You don’t see these fights in boxing often for a reason. A lot of times people hide behind their promoters. This fight is proof that if two guys want to get in the ring at any stage in their career, even if it doesn’t necessarily follow the specific script that boxing usually follows, you can make a fight that’s outside of the box.

“We’re both young and I think it’s a hot fight for the division. It’s a perfect fight to see who’s ready to go to the next level. So props to Jesus. I think we’re going to put on a great fight. Benavidez vs. Plant is a great fight but I think that this fight is going to be right up there as one of the showstoppers on March 25.

“I think I showed people a little bit in my last fight, but I think I’ve got a lot more to show and that was just a small piece of it. Every fight you gain more experience and I was happy with the performance and happy with the rounds, but at the same time, I’ve added a lot to my game since then. That’s what we focused on in this training camp.

“I think this is definitely a step up but I think it’s the right step up. I’m taking a step up against a guy who’s fresh, young, hungry and that’s a very motivating situation for me. It gets me excited and it fuels the fire that I have inside me.

“I think this is just the start. I think it’s the first fight that people are going to go back to when they look at our careers. I think we’re both going to have long careers and people are going to watch this fight for a long time. That’s a big deal for me. I want this fight to make a statement in the sport. I’m 22. He’s 21. For this to be our coming out party where we may go on to become world champions one day. And who knows? We’re both young so there may be more than one fight between us.

“I don’t see any way that this isn’t an entertaining fight. I’m willing to do whatever it takes. I’m willing to go to the end of myself to get this win for my family. I’m sure he feels the same way.”

CHRIS COLBERT

“I missed the ring. I’m ready to get back and do what I do best and do what I love. Come March 25, I’m coming to put on a show.

“The layoff was more so to get my mind right. I hadn’t lost in over a decade. So it was something that hit hard. When you really love what you do, it’s no joke. I’m not accustomed to losing. I never got used to losing. The layoff was a gift to me. I really needed that.

“I’ll go back down to 130-pounds. I’ve been out for a year, so I wasn’t trying to kill my body to make 130 pounds. Especially when I didn’t have big names to fight there. A lot of people at 135 were calling my name. Valenzuela called my name before on TV, so I have to come give him an early Christmas present.

“I have to go back down and get my belt. That means going back to beat on [WBA 130-Pound World Champion] Hector Luis Garcia. Then I can come back to lightweight. I have something to prove, and the only way to do that is to beat up someone that people say has a lot of potential.

“I wanted to face someone who would come and bring a fight so that the world will see that I’m not playing. I don’t like swimming with fishes, I like swimming with sharks.

“I always said that I wanted to fight at least one time at MGM Grand and now it’s my time to make it happen.

“The layoff wasn’t really about me finding myself, because I’ve always known who I am. I was doing it big and I think I got a little caught up. I had to settle myself down. I have to just continue to do what I do. A new chapter starts March 25.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I’m very excited to come back on March 25 on such a big card overall. Chris Colbert is a great fighter. I’m extremely ready. I’m prepared. I’m focused, and I’m ready to get the win.

“I know what my mistakes were. I know why I took that loss and I know how I felt during the fight. It was just a matter of me getting my stuff together, biting down and staying focused. That’s what I did this training camp.

“It’s been a very serious training camp with David Benavidez because he doesn’t like Caleb Plant, so everybody is fully locked in. It’s the perfect atmosphere for me to come back. Whatever reasons Colbert has for coming back, I have my reasons and I’ll be ready March 25 to put on a hell of a show and get my hand raised.

“The main reason I think I lost my last fight is because I was rushing a lot of things and not taking my time. I wasn’t making the most of my time and I was just going through the days, but now I’m reflecting every day on everything that I’m doing. I’m looking over everything that I’m doing and looking at every little detail.

“I have to give my full attention to Chris Colbert and not focus on a rematch with Edwin De Los Santos. Colbert is a hell of a fighter. I like his style. I’ve been watching him for a bit. It’s going to be a great fight. After I beat him on March 25, we can talk about a rematch with De Los Santos.

“Jose Benavidez Sr. is a very honest man. I’m very honest myself. We don’t lie to each other and we don’t point fingers. I took responsibility for the loss and for my performance and that was that. It was just time to take responsibility, grow up, be a man and continue doing what I love to do.

“Training with the Benavidez family is amazing. The energy in the gym every day since this camp started has been electric. I’ve just been feeding off of it. There’s no beef between me and Chris Colbert. I like him. But this is personal with myself. I have to do this for me and for my family. It’s a promise I made a long time ago and I will continue to go that route.”

CODY CROWLEY

“Fight time is getting close and there’s nothing I love more than fighting. That fire burns inside of me and each day I get closer to being able to hurt someone.

“I hope he’s been training in a phone booth, because that’s what it’s going to feel like in the ring. I don’t like to waste any time. So if you want to fight, I’ll meet you right there in the center of the ring. If you want to run, I’m coming forward and I’m coming to break my opponent down.

“I definitely took a long journey to get here, but it needed to happen for me to be in the position I’m in today. Getting this win will mean that nobody can take away what I’ve worked so hard for and earned. This has been a decade in the making as a professional.

“I’m definitely not looking past March 25. So Abel you better be ready. I’m coming to hunt you down. I’m sure he’s doing the same thing. Hats off to him for stepping up to the fire. I can see it in his eyes that he’s ready.

“Every opponent I face is the toughest opponent of my career. Nobody exists except the person in front of me. I’m sharp, I’m collected and I’m very eager to take on this obstacle.

“I still have a month of work to do. There’s plenty to do. My father took his own life six months ago and I’m fighting this one in his honor.”

ABEL RAMOS

“I’m excited about this fight card. There is going to be a lot of explosive action with me and Crowley. I think our styles are going to match up well for an exciting fight. I can’t wait. I have been training hard, putting in work, and I’m ready to give the fans a show. A phone booth fight is right up my alley. That’s what I want. It’s going to be great for the fans.

“I’m always competitive and fired up to take on a new challenge. That’s what has kept me motivated throughout the years. Watching the fighters that I have fought motivates me more to accomplish my dream to become a world champion, and I’m not going to stop until I get it.

“I am ready for war. I’m ready to get in there and fight and get the win at whatever cost. I am not intimidated by Crowley. I am a veteran and have fought every fighter. I go into each fight to win and make adjustments.”

“We are ready to do whatever it takes to win. That’s our goal right now. If it’s getting into a brawl, then let’s brawl. If it’s being smarter in the ring, then that’s what I’m going to do. The priority is to get a win. The fans are going to get their money’s worth because I’m ready to put on a show for them.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT

THREE HIGH-STAKES SHOWDOWNS ADDED TO STACKED DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD ON SATURDAY, MARCH 25 IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – February 15, 2023 – Three high-stakes showdowns will put young stars and unbeaten contenders in the toughest tests of their careers to date, all as part of a jam-packed night leading up to the highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV main event between super middleweight stars and former world champions David “El Bandera Roja’’ Benavídez and Caleb Plant taking place on Saturday, March 25 live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

In the co-main event, unbeaten rising stars Jesús “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer will go toe-to-toe in a 10-round super welterweight scuffle, as each fighter looks to make their claim as the future of the 154-pound division. The action will also see rising lightweights Chris “Primetime” Colbert and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela meet in a 10-round duel, while unbeaten welterweight contender Cody Crowley faces the hard-hitting Abel Ramos in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

“With such an intriguing fight in the main event, it was only right that the Benavidez vs. Plant pay-per-view undercard was also filled with evenly matched showdowns highlighted by future stars looking for signature victories,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jesús Ramos vs. Joey Spencer will help determine who might be the next star at 154-pounds, while two more young stars also square off on the pay-per-view as Chris Colbert and Jose Valenzuela go toe-to-toe. With Cody Crowley putting his unbeaten record on the line against the upset-minded Abel Ramos in the telecast opener, this card lines up to be a can’t-miss event on March 25 in Las Vegas.”

A strong southpaw who at 21 has yet to come close to hitting his ceiling as a fighter, Ramos (19-0, 15 KOs) is the nephew of welterweight contender Abel Ramos but has forged his own path toward stardom since turning pro in 2018. Jesús Ramos added two victories to his ledger in 2022, blasting out Vladimir Hernandez in round six in February before dominating Luke Santamaria in May to earn a unanimous decision. A native of Casa Grande, Ariz., Ramos also owns back-to-back 10-round unanimous decisions over Brian Mendoza and Javier Molina in 2021. Overall, the youthful Ramos has gained recognition with highlight-reel KOs, stopping six of his last nine opponents, showcasing a desire to end his fights early.

“I’ve been in the gym for months now getting ready for this opportunity and everything has been great,” said [Jesús] Ramos. “I’m expecting the best version of Joey Spencer on March 25. I know I have what it takes to beat him because of the preparation we’ve been putting in, my dedication, my skills and my will to win. I’m excited to be part of one of the biggest cards of the year thus far, and I know we will give the fans an exciting fight!”

The 22-year-old Spencer (16-0, 10 KOs) turned pro in February 2018 and immediately caught the eye of fans and pundits with his combination of speed, power and athleticism. Spencer’s most recent outing saw him earn a career-best triumph as he controlled the action throughout and scored a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Kevin Salgado in September 2022. The Linden, Mich., native has remained busy since debuting as a pro, including two knockouts out of three victories in his 2021 campaign. Prior to the Salgado fight, Spencer dispatched of Ravshan Hudaynazarov via unanimous decision in March 2022.

“It’s not that often that fans get to see fights between two undefeated rising fighters like [Jesús] Ramos and I’m thankful to be a part of it,” said Spencer. “This is the fight I asked for, and for it to take place on one of the biggest cards of the year is very special. I’m training to put the rest of the division on notice come fight night.”

Representing his native Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (16-1, 6 KOs) will look to impress in his lightweight debut after dropping a hard-fought contest to super featherweight world champion Hector Luis Garcia in February 2022. After a decorated amateur career, Colbert turned pro in 2015 and took out three undefeated fighters in his first eight bouts. Since then, he took care of a slew of former champions and contenders including Jezzrel Corrales, Jaime Arboleda and Tugstsogt Nyambayar to establish himself as a potential future world champion. He will now seek to reach that goal at 135-pounds.

“I’m happy to be back,” said Colbert. “Training camp is going amazingly for this fight. Like I’ve said before, there’s no pressure on me. I bring the pressure. It’s ‘Primetime’ on SHOWTIME^®! I’m back baby!”

The 23-year-old Valenzuela (12-1, 8 KOs) trains as a stablemate of unbeaten two-time world champion Benavidez and will look for a big bounce back victory after dropping a September 2022 contest to Edwin De Los Santos. Valenzuela, who turned pro in 2018, was sensational prior to the loss, including a first-round knockout of former world champion Francisco Vargas in April 2022. Born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Valenzuela rode a five-bout knockout streak before earning his first 10-round decision in a victory over Deiner Berrio in September 2021.

“I’m extremely motivated for this fight and have been training really hard,” said Valenzuela. “The difference with this camp is that I was in shape when camp started, so it’s giving me a head start on my preparation. My strength and conditioning are at a whole new level and I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m capable of in this fight.”

Representing his native Ontario, Canada, Crowley (21-0, 9 KOs) returns to the ring after a pair of impressive victories that have catapulted him up the 147-pound division. In December 2021, he took care of the previously unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov with a unanimous decision, and most recently he turned back the streaking Josesito Lopez with another unanimous decision in April 2022. The 29-year-old had previously defeated Josh Torres in September 2020 following a 2019 run that saw him win a Canadian super welterweight title with a 12-round decision over Stuart McLellan in February.

“After years of hard work and dedication, I’m thrilled to be fighting back on the big stage for this fight,” said Crowley. “I have succeeded in overcoming obstacles and adversity, and Abel Ramos will not be able to stop me from achieving my dream of becoming world champion. I’m dedicating this fight to my father’s memory and to all of those who have worked diligently to help me succeed against all odds.”

Ramos (27-5-2, 21 KOs) is part of a boxing family out of Casa Grande, Ariz., which includes his nephew, rising star Jesús Ramos, who he shares a card with for the fourth-straight time. The 31-year-old has built a reputation as a hardnosed boxer who doesn’t back down from a fight and gives as good as he gets. He turned the tables on Omar Figueroa, Jr., when he went toe-to-toe and forced Figueroa to quit on his stool in May 2021. He also owns a split-decision defeat over former welterweight world champion Yordenis Ugas, and has shown a flair for the dramatic when he scored a TKO victory over Bryant Perrella in the waning seconds of their fight in 2020. Ramos will look to bounce back from a decision loss against Luke Santamaria in his last fight in February.

“I’m having a great training camp and I can’t wait until it’s time to get into the ring,” said Ramos. “I’m prepared to take on Crowley and show off everything I’ve been working on in camp. I’m facing a strong opponent, but I believe that my experience in these big fights will get me the victory on March 25.”

# # #

Benavidez-Plant: Searching for an edge

By Norm Frauenheim –

For now, it’s a fight known for its rancor. David Benavidez and Caleb Plant have been insulting each other for at least a couple of years.

The four-letter festival continued, ad nauseam, at a news conference in Los Angeles last week. Between now and opening bell on March 25 at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand, there’ll be no end to the trash.

Trash in, trash out. In boxing, that’s a business plan. But there’s more to this bout than just another effing expletive.

It’s a multi-dimensional date, edgy for the bad blood and the threat that some real blood will be spilled. Above all, it’s a genuine fight during an era when there just aren’t many.

Who wins? Who knows?

Benavidez appears to have the momentum and most of the energy. Narrow odds suggest he’ll win and move closer to a so-called mandatory date with undisputed super-middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez.

Even Canelo, who has beaten Plant and dismissed Benavidez as unworthy of a shot, picks Benavidez in an interview with ESNEWS. Still, it’s not clear whether Canelo would fight him or resume his career at light-heavyweight.

Nevertheless, he’s interested. Canelo and other fighters are talking about Benavidez-Plant. There’s a buzz building for the first significant fight in 2023.

Plant knows the odds, yet believes he has an edge because of his experience. He’s been where Benavidez has not, he says. It’s a comment that has echoes of what Canelo said during a news conference after his trilogy-ending victory over Gennadiy Golovkin in September. That’s when he angrily shut the door on any immediate prospect of a date with Benavidez.

“This is [Benavidez’s] first big fight,’’ Plant told reporters after a rancorous news conference in downtown LA on Feb. 2. “This ain’t my first big fight. I’ve been here before. I’ve been on the big stage more than once.”

He has, exactly once.

In his lone loss, Canelo delivered a punishing beatdown, scoring an 11^th-round TKO on Nov. 6, 2021, also at Vegas’ MGM Grand. Plant’s comment suggests that he doesn’t believe Benavidez has had to deal with the kind of adversity that comes with a defeat under boxing’s brightest lights. It appears Plant learned from the loss. He has a new trainer in Stephen “Breadman” Edwards and some newfound power, which he flashed in a stoppage of Anthony Dirrell in one of last year’s most sensational knockouts.

“A lot of the people that [Benavidez has] fought have been one dimensional,’’ Plant said. “IQ has been decent, but not even the same universe as what I am able to do on fight night.

“I can do a lot of things.”

But Dirrell is the reference point that says Benavidez-Plant is a pick ‘em fight. Both beat Dirrell — Plant in the ninth round of a bout last October in Brooklyn and Benavidez, also in the ninth of a September 2019 bout in Los Angeles.

Plant ended it with a big left hand. Benavidez simply wore down Dirrell, beating him into submission with relentless pressure and forcing his corner to throw in the towel. At the time of each stoppage, each led on the cards by similar scores. It was Plant, 79-73, 80-72, 79-73. It was Benavidez, 78-74, 79-73, 78-74.

A possible key to a Benavidez’ advantage might be what’s not on the Phoenix-born fighter’s record. He sparred with Dmitry Bivol, the 2022 Fighter of the Year, before Bivol’s masterful upset of Canelo in a light-heavyweight bout last May. Bivol’s stunning performance put him alongside today’s very best in terms of boxing skill. Plant talked about IQ. Bivol’s IQ ranks at the top of the scale. For Benavidez, those rounds of sparring might have been an education, an invaluable lesson plan.

It’s evident that Benavidez and Bivol emerged from the sparring with mutual respect. Benavidez said he was not surprised by Bivol’s upset of Canelo. He saw what he could do in the gym.

Before Bivol’s decision over Canelo, he was asked about Benavidez and whether he deserves a shot at the Mexican star, boxing’s biggest pay-per-view draw.

“He has enough to get the fight and win the fight,’’ Bivol said last year at a news conference announcing his date with Canelo. “Why not? He has good skill. Good combinations, good defense and lots of conditioning.’’

Just enough, perhaps, to beat Plant.

VIDEO: David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant: Kick-Off Press Conference | March 25th on SHOWTIME PPV

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES – February 2, 2023 – Undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “El Bandera Roja’’ Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant continued their war of words and nearly came to blows at a tense press conference in Los Angeles Thursday before they settle their years-long rivalry in a 12-round showdown that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Benavídez and Plant met at the Conga Room at L.A. Live less than two months before their long-awaited clash, as the hungry super middleweights look to settle their score in one of boxing’s most anticipated showdowns. Both have had reigns as champions at 168 pounds and both are eager to ascend to the top of the division as they fight for Benavídez’s Interim WBC Super Middleweight title. As the two exchanged insults on stage and the barbs grew more personal, security twice had to intervene to keep them apart during the proceedings.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Los Angeles:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“On March 25, I guarantee that I’m knocking Caleb Plant out before round six.

“This has been a fight in the making for the last five years and it couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m at my best right now mentally and physically. On March 25, I finally get to put hands on Caleb Plant.

“When you’re on the ground bleeding, you’ll learn how to respect a real fighter. I’m what you want to be. You’re a chump.

“He had a sensational win against Anthony Dirrell and I take nothing away from that. This is the best time this fight could have happened. It was the right move for both of us. I’ve been wanting to fight him for a long time and now the winner of this fight gets to be the mandatory for Canelo Alvarez. I’m super motivated.

“The fans want to see a knockout. He can act like I’m not like that, but just look at my record. Look at how everyone looks after they fight me. I don’t play around. That’s what I do and he’s no different from any fighter I’ve ever fought.

“This is the most important fight of my career to this date. I feel like after this fight, I’m going to pass that threshold and get to where I want to be. Every fighter has one of these grudge matches that brings the best out of them. I don’t like Caleb at all, but I want to thank him for bringing the animal out of me. I’m more motivated than ever.

“I can’t wait to give my fans a great knockout. We know that this isn’t gonna be easy. It’s gonna be grueling. But I’m ready to get in there and knock this guy out.

“He knows how the canvas feels and I’m putting him back on that. You’re gonna be laying down again.

“You got knocked out already and I’m gonna do the same thing to you again. I’m putting you to sleep.”

CALEB PLANT

“We got a big fight on our hands. That’s what boxing needs. I want to be someone who helps deliver that to the boxing world and I’m sure Benavidez does too.

“After the Canelo fight, I said that I wanted to make the biggest fight possible. They came back with two-time champion Anthony Dirrell for a title eliminator. I knew I was next in line to fight the interim champ before that fight, and that meant David Benavidez. I’m in the fight that I want.

“You don’t have to worry about me showing up on March 25. This isn’t my first big fight. I’ve been here before.

“We’re both at the top of the division. This rivalry only started because we agree to disagree on who’s better. And that’s fine, he should feel like that. That’s how great fighters are supposed to feel. It’s slowly built up over time.

“I’m coming. We’re prepared. I’ve been at this level before and I know what it takes. From now until March 25 it’s just about who can train the hardest and keep their foot on the gas.

“This is an incredibly important fight and it’s perfect timing for it to happen. This kind of fight sends a message to all the other fighters that it’s time to step up and take big fights. Boxing needs fights like this. This is a legacy fight for me and my team. On March 25, I see myself getting my hand raised.

“I’ve fought in Las Vegas before and it’s what every kid who has ever laced up a pair of boxing gloves dreams of – fighting on the biggest stage at MGM Grand and on pay-per-view.

“I never said David’s a bad fighter because I have no interest in fighting bad fighters. I want to fight good fighters and make big fights. This is the best fight that could be made in the division.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Benavidez’s Father and Trainer

“This is a big opportunity. This is going to be a great fight and worthy of pay-per-view. We’ve got a great team and I’ve had to add to it to keep up with David. I guarantee that this is going to be an exciting fight on March 25.

“I don’t think Plant and his team are as comfortable with this fight as we are. We’ve wanted this fight for almost five years and we pushed to get this fight.

“We’re so motivated to face someone like Caleb Plant. He’s a good fighter, he’s slick and he’s difficult. These are the fights that we need to get motivated. Plant can see in David’s eyes that David wants to mess him up.”

STEPHEN “BREADMAN” EDWARDS, Plant’s Trainer

“I’m proud to be in this spot to showcase our hard work against a great fighter like David Benavidez. I also feel like I have a great fighter in Caleb Plant.”

“I’m very excited to show what we’ve been working on when we get in the ring March 25. People say there is bad blood between them, but they will get to settle it in seven weeks. In the end, we all need each other to make these kinds of fights.”

“I’m glad that this was an easy fight to make. Caleb called me and said he was making the fight. So here we are and we’ve already been in camp for a couple of weeks.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Some people say that the big fights never get made, but that’s just not true with PBC and SHOWTIME. This is the type of fight that makes this the greatest sport in the world.

“Saturday March 25 is going to be an incredible night. These are the kinds of fights that we’re in this sport for. There’s nothing more exciting than seeing two fighters in their prime and slugging it out.

“I believe that this fight between David Benavidez and Caleb Plant will be added to the list of epic brawls between two warriors taking it to the next level. This fight will be one of, if not the winner of Fight of the Year this year. This is one you don’t want to miss.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“If you know anything about boxing, you know this is one of the very best fights that can be made in the sport. The consensus No. 1 and No. 2 contenders in this division. This is a high-stakes matchup, personally and professionally. There’s a personal rivalry here. There are bragging rights here. There is supremacy in the division at stake.

“David Benavidez was called “The Mexican Monster” by none other than Mike Tyson. Some of the fastest hands in the heavier divisions and in the sport overall. This will be the eighth time he’s fought on SHOWTIME^®, and he’s grown up on SHOWTIME. He first caught our eye on SHOBOX^® way back in 2015. Since then, he’s fought on Special Editions and SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^®. This will be his first appearance on SHOWTIME PPV. He’s been on the stage so long that it’s easy to forget that he’s only 26 years old. He’s the youngest ever champion at 168 pounds at the tender age of 20 years old. He is one of the most entertaining fighters in the sport.

“This will be Caleb’s third appearance on SHOWTIME and second on SHOWTIME PPV. He is an excellent boxer. Fundamentally solid, underrated power. He’s coming off what for many people, including CBS Sports and Boxing Scene, ranked as the 2022 Knockout of the Year. A highlight-reel knockout of the very durable Anthony Dirrell. If you have any doubts about Caleb’s power, go back and watch that knockout and you won’t. Last time Caleb fought on SHOWTIME PPV was a grueling 11-round fight against Canelo Alvarez. There are many people that think he provided the blueprint. The jab. The movement. Frustrating Canelo in a way we haven’t seen him frustrated . It’s that combination of skills and power that make him a worthy adversary for David Benavidez.

“It seems like many times in this sport people want to pay more attention to the fights that don’t get made than the fights that do. Well, this is an outstanding fight and more importantly, neither one of these fighters has to take it. It’s not a mandatory. It’s not an eliminator. It’s not something that anybody had to be talked into. This is something that each of these fighters wanted personally and professionally. Boxing got it right, as it often does.”

# # #

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT STARS DAVID BENAVIDEZ AND CALEB PLANT TO SETTLE WAR OF WORDS IN HIGH STAKES SHOWTIME PPV^® MAIN EVENT CLASH ON SATURDAY, MARCH 25 IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – January 25, 2023 – Undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “El Bandera Roja’’ Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant will meet in a high-stakes, 12-round showdown to settle their long-simmering feud live on SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Benavídez and Plant will take their years-long war of words into the ring, as these assertive and hungry super middleweights look to cast their ballot as the division’s next kingpin. Both have had reigns as champions at 168 pounds and both are eager to once again ascend to the top of the division as they fight for Benavídez’s Interim WBC Super Middleweight title.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, go on sale Friday, January 27 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Pre-sale tickets will be available TOMORROW, Thursday, January 26 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com with the code: BOXING

“David Benavídez vs. Caleb Plant will see two fighters in the prime of their careers take on the biggest challenge they can as they look to leave no doubt about their legacy in the ring,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “While Benavídez is known for his power, and Plant for his supreme boxing acumen, both have shown their abilities as well-rounded fighters in recent action. All of this makes for a can’t-miss night on March 25 on SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.”

“Sometimes in this business, to sell a fight, people say it’s bad blood,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “For this one, I give my personal guarantee it is real bad blood, and it will be an unbelievable fight. Don’t miss it!”

“This is one of the biggest and potentially most explosive fights that can be made in boxing, not just in the super middleweight division,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “It pits two fighters at the peak of their athletic primes, both with prodigious skill-sets and contrasting styles, both of whom take great pride in the way they perform. It is an intriguing matchup and the outcome is impossible to predict. Add in their genuine and mutual dislike for one another and we have a volatile, 50-50 matchup and potential fight-of-the-year candidate. SHOWTIME is proud to deliver this event and mark yet another compelling and significant main event as we raise the curtain on our 2023 schedule.”

The 25-year-old undefeated Benavídez (26-0, 23 KOs) became the youngest-ever 168-pound world champion at just 20 years old when he defeated Ronald Gavril by split decision for the vacant WBC title on SHOWTIME in 2017. A Phoenix-native who now lives and trains in the Seattle area, Benavídez has stamped his place in the super middleweight division with knockout power in both hands and improving ring savvy with each fight.

When he was 15 years old, Benavídez went from weighing 250 pounds to a boxing prodigy under the watchful eye of his father and trainer, Jose, Sr., and his brother and veteran contender Jose Jr., as he famously held his own in sparring against middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin. Benavídez is riding a string of six straight knockout victories heading into the bout against Plant, having most recently scored a resounding third-round stoppage of former champion David Lemieux in his last fight in May.

“I can’t wait until they put me in the ring with him so I can beat his ass,” said Benavídez. “This is going to be a great night for boxing fans. I can’t wait to step in there and give everyone the beatdown they’re coming to see.”

Plant (22-1, 13 KOs) has used his sublime boxing skills to rise to the rank of world champion and, in his last fight, showed big-time power earning 2022’s Knockout of the Year (CBS Sports, BoxingScene) in a win over Anthony Dirrell. It was Plant’s debut performance with new trainer Stephen Edwards in October where he ended a heated rivalry with Dirrell with a single punch, knocking out the former two-time champion to deliver one of 2022’s most memorable finishes.

The 30-year-old Plant, who was born in Nashville, Tenn., and now lives in Las Vegas, won the IBF title in a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Jose Uzcategui in 2019. Plant dropped Uzcategui in the second and fourth rounds and cruised to victory for the championship. He made three successful title defenses, defeating Mike Lee and Vincent Feigenbutz by TKO in addition to a unanimous decision victory over former champion Caleb Truax. He lost the title in an undisputed championship match against Canelo Alvarez in November 2021, at times frustrating Alvarez with his smooth boxing acumen before defeating Dirrell to set up this highly anticipated clash with Benavidez.

“After I knocked out Dirrell, I made it clear I wanted to go after the biggest fight that could be made in the division,” said Plant. “This is one of the most anticipated matchups and I’m here again, showing the world why I’m one of the biggest attractions in boxing. I feel sharp and on point. I’m looking forward to March 25, not only to give the fans what they’ve been waiting for, but to show who the better man is.”

# # #

Finally, Benavidez and Plant can settle differences with real fight March 25

By Norm Frauenheim –

David Benavidez and Caleb Plant have run out of expletives. There’s not much left to say, although it’s certain they’ll still find new ways to insult each other.

But, at least, there’s finally a chance to deliver the last word — and perhaps punch — to their long-running exchange of trash-talk.

Finally, there’s a date.

Finally, we’ll hear an opening bell instead of some other four-letter word.

They’ll fight March 25 at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand in a Showtime pay-per-view bout, according to Boxing Scene and ESPN in news confirmed by 15 Rounds.

The date is not a surprise. Both Benavidez and Plant have known for weeks that they would fight on the last Saturday in March. Not even an ESPN bout on the same night featuring ex-junior-welterweight champion Jose Ramirez in hometown Fresno against Richard Commey would change those plans. Their training camps have moved forward with March 25 built into the process.

The site, however, was uncertain. The super-middleweight bout had been shopped around. Dallas and Los Angeles were mentioned as possibilities. But Vegas was always there, the only place for the best 168-pound fight not involving Canelo Alvarez. More on him later.

Plant, a native Tennessean from Ashland City near Nashville, lives and trains in Vegas these days. But there’s no hometown edge there. Ask any gambler. Benavidez would probably have agreed to fight Plant at the Grand Ole Opry. He’s been waiting on Plant for years.

“For me, it’s personal, 100-percent personal,’’ said Benavidez, a Phoenix-born fighter who has been living and training in Seattle. “I’m really looking to beat the bleep out of him.’’

Expect a lot more bleep from both between now and the moment they walk down the aisle, up the steps and through the ropes.

For now, Benavidez is narrowly favored. Across multiple betting sites, he has been for weeks, a sure sign that the date has been a sure thing.

Within the ropes, interest in Benavidez and Plant has grown mostly because of Plant’s stunning stoppage of Anthony Dirrell in October. It was among the best KOs in 2022 Plant’s sudden flash of power – a left hook set up by a body punch — was a warning shot. His nickname is Sweet Hands, which had been another way of saying he could score but not stop.

But the flash of power against Dirrell might have sent a message to Benavidez.

Beware.

Benavidez is nothing if not aggressive. He moves forward, ever forward. That’s what makes him popular. But it’s also risky. It’s what could make him vulnerable to the very kind of shot that left Dirrell down and done.

The question is whether Plant can withstand Benavidez’ relentless power. It’s like one of those Pacific storms. It never stops. Perhaps, that’s why Plant demanded a 22-foot ring. A bigger piece of canvas might offer a few more escape routes.

Plant never could elude Canelo’s power, which proved to be lethal in the overall accumulation of punches that the reigning super-middleweight champion landed. He punished Plant, knocking him down twice and forcing a stoppage early in the eleventh round of a November 2021 fight.

Benavidez promises to execute a beatdown

“worse than Canelo.’’

Canelo, of course, represents a key comparison point. Plant has faced him, Benavidez has not. Plant has been there; Benavidez has not. That experience could be a tipping point in favor of Plant.

Canelo might also be there for the winner. The fight is supposed to lead to a shot to the World Boxing Council belt held by Canelo, undisputed at 168 pounds.

But the only sure thing is that Canelo will be a fundamental part of the sales pitch.

It’s not clear what Canelo will do. He’s coming off wrist surgery. He’s expected to fight a tune-up, perhaps against UK super-middleweight John Ryder, in May. But then?

Promoter Eddie Hearn continues to suggest that Canelo might get a rematch against Dmitry Bivol at super-middleweight instead of light-heavy. Bivol, the consensus Fighter of the Year, upset Canelo, winning a decision in May at light heavy.

“I’m gonna put my neck on the line and say that Canelo Alvarez will fight Bivol for the undisputed championship at 168,’’ Hearn told IFL TV this week. “There’s a lot of work to be done, but Dmitry Bivol is up for the challenge.’’

That would set up another long-running argument. At least, Benavidez and Plant are going to settle one.

Benavidez prepares for Plant, but fans still dream about a date with Canelo

By Norm Frauenheim –

It’s been called a fantasy by Sampson Lewkowicz, who has been hearing talk about David Benavidez-versus-Canelo Alvarez for a couple of years.

Lewkowicz, who called the Benavidez-Canelo possibility a fantasy after Benavidez’ blowout of David Lemieux last May, is still hearing the talk.

It’s been there, loud and repetitious on all of social media’s many platforms, for nearly as long as there’s been speculation about Terence Crawford-versus-Errol Spence Jr.

Crawford-Spence is still on boxing’s crowded fantasy island, seemingly in permanent residence since negotiations collapsed in October. Yet, the talk is still the buzz among exasperated fans hoping against hope that it’ll happen, maybe later in 2023.

Crawford-Spence is just the latest example of how fans never quit dreaming. Fighters fade away, but fantasies never do.

Chances of Benavidez-Canelo are still viable. But excuse Lewkowicz, Benavidez’ promoter/manager, if he remains skeptical. He’s forced to be, mostly because chances of a Benavidez-Canelo fight in 2023 appear to be somewhere between nil and zero.

“Canelo Alvarez’ legacy will be stained for the rest of his life,’’ Lewkowicz told the El Nuevo Herald, the Miami Herald’s Spanish-speaking newspaper. “They will ask him why he didn’t fight with Benavidez.”

Canelo enters the New Year in rehab from wrist surgery. At the earliest, his next fight – his first since a decision over Gennadiy Golovkin in September – is expected in May. Expect a tune-up, maybe against UK super-middleweight John Ryder.

If the wrist holds up, there are plans for a rematch against Dmitry Bivol, who upset Canelo in May and went on to win Fighter of the Year in a vote announced this week by the Boxing Writers Association of America.

If all goes well, Canelo-Bivol 2 could happen in September. But there’s a question: At what weight? Bivol beat Canelo at light-heavy. Canelo has reportedly said he wants the rematch to be fought at the same weight, 175 pounds.

But promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested that the sequel could be at super-middleweight. Canelo holds all the relevant belts at 168, including the World Boxing Council’s version.

Benavidez, a former two-time WBC champion, has agreed to fight Caleb Plant in a bout that puts the winner in line for a shot at the WBC belt.

Benavidez is currently training in Seattle for Plant in a bout projected for late March. As of Thursday, however, no site or date had been announced

Let’s say Benavidez beats Plant. The unbeaten fighter from Phoenix is favored. FanDuel favors him this week at minus-195. He has about a 65-percent shot at beating Plant, who lost to Canelo in November 2021 and then displayed some eye-opening power in a KO of Anthony Dirrell in his last outing.

But here’s the question: Bivol has said he’d consider a rematch at super-middle instead of light-heavy. What if Bivol agrees to 168 and then beats Canelo for a second time? Move over Crawford-Spence. Make room on fantasy island for Benavidez-Canelo.

Benavidez-Bivol would be interesting. But it would leave fans demanding Benavidez-Canelo – a potential classic between a Mexican-American and Mexican — feeling unfulfilled all over again.

Lewkowicz was also asked about emerging super-middleweight David Morrell, a Cuban living and training in Minneapolis.

“Morrell also beats Canelo, 100 percent, just like Benavidez,’’ Lewkowicz said. “That’s why there is no such fight. Canelo is never going to fight with Morrell or Benavidez. Canelo is an underdog against Benavidez. On the other hand, there is no favorite against Morrell.

“Benavidez-versus-Morrell, that’s a tougher fight than Plant, including Canelo.’’

Don’t say he didn’t warn you.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DAVID BENAVIDEZ RENEWS PROMOTIONAL CONTRACT WITH SAMPSON BOXING

Sampson Lewkowicz proudly announces that Interim WBC World Super Middleweight Champion, David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez has again renewed his exclusive multi-year promotional agreement with Sampson Boxing.

Already the youngest super middleweight world champion in boxing history, the now 25-year-old Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs), is currently a two-time champion and one of the most feared fighters on the planet.

The Phoenix-based slugger will face former champion Caleb ‘Sweethands’ Plant in a final WBC 168-lb title eliminator in March to decide the mandatory for world champion Canelo Alvarez. Currently deep in training for the match, Benavidez says he’s happy to continue his promotional relationship with Lewkowicz.

“I feel great re-signing with Sampson,” he said during a break. “I’m happy to continue with him and very appreciative for his help building my career from nearly the beginning.”

Father, co-manager and trainer Jose Benavidez says he’s thankful for the well-known promoter’s work on his son’s career. “He (Sampson) was the first to believe in David. Now, everyone wants to sign him. The reason we got those belts is because of the work he put in. We’re super exited to continue this journey and to be able to get these big fights.”

“The team that achieved the youngest super middleweight champ of all time is joined contractually and as a family,” said Benavidez’ co-manager David Garcia. “I’m looking forward to David achieving more than he ever has in the coming years.”

“I’m very happy to be able to continue this journey with ‘El Bandera Roja,’” said Sampson Lewkowicz. “David is in line for many big fights that will define his legacy as one of the greats and I’m very proud to be his promoter and for all he has already done and all he will do in the near future.”
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

No More Waiting: Caleb Plant agrees to fight to fight David Benavidez

By Norm Frauenheim –

David Benavidez waited for weeks. He heard Canelo Alvarez say no, no and no all over again. He heard David Morrell say maybe later.

From Caleb Plant, he heard nothing.

Until Thursday.

Suddenly, the waiting game and all of its frustration ended. Plant announced on Twitter that he signed to fight Benavidez. It was a surprise, if only because Plant had quit talking about Benavidez.

For years, Plant (22-1, 13 KOs) and Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs) exchanged trash talk. Then nothing, no mention at all of Benavidez from Plant after Plant’s stoppage of Anthony Dirrell on Oct. 15

The silence was almost newsworthy. It was as if Plant had joined the crowd that was running from Benavidez, boxing’s most avoided fighter since Antonio Margarito.

Turns out, however, the silence was simply business. Negotiations had been underway for at least a couple of weeks, in part because neither Benavidez nor his promoter-manager Sampson Lewkowicz wanted to fight Jose Uzcategui, who had already fallen out of a 2021 date because of a positive test for the potent steroid EPO.

Benavidez-Uzcategui talks had been reported. And perhaps that fight would have been an alternative if a deal couldn’t be made with Plant.

But it was also clear that Uzcategui was a fight that would have done nothing for Benavidez reputation. Nobody wanted to see it. Plus, there’s a risk in a stay-busy fight, especially against an opponent with a documented PED history.

The real talks were with Plant, the only fight that made any real sense for Benavidez and his emerging fan base. Benavidez quickly signed, according to his father and trainer Jose Benavidez Sr.

“David signed a few week ago,’’ Jose Sr. told 15 Rounds from Seattle where he and his sons have been living and training for the last few years.

Still, however, the unbeaten super-middleweight from Phoenix had to wait, wait on Plant. Finally, he signed Thursday.

“Plant wanted this, wanted that,’’ Benavidez Sr. said. “He wanted to use Rival gloves. He wanted the blue corner. He wanted to be the second guy to enter the ring. He wanted a 22-foot ring. I told him, look, we’ll fight you in a ring as big as the Dallas Cowboys stadium. Then, you’ll have plenty of room to run around.’’

Benavidez’ dad took the list of demands to his son.

“David just looked at me and said ‘Give him whatever he wants. I just want to fight him,’ ‘’ Jose Sr said.

Done deal.

It’s still not clear exactly when the fight will happen. Jose Sr. said a date within the first quarter of next year – January, February or March — looks likely. A neutral site is also likely. Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Dallas are possibilities, he said.

Phoenix is not on the list. After a hometown crowd erupted in a collective roar at Benavidez’ scary blowout of David Lemieux in suburban Glendale last May, it’s clear that the heartbeat of Benavidez’ fan-base is Phoenix. It would be tough for Plant to win a decision there.

It’s also a fan base that’s likely to follow Benavidez to where ever, whenever he fights Plant. The Benavidez family – David, former junior-welterweight champion Jose Jr. and Jose Sr. – are planning to move back to Phoenix.

“It’s time, time to come home,’’ Jose Sr. said.

Time, time to fight Plant, too.

Caleb Plant Signs Contract For Benavidez Fight

Former Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb Plant announced on his verified Twitter account that he signed a contract to face David Benavidez for a fight that has been brewing for several years.

Plant indicated the fight will take place in 2023.

The bout is expected to be ordered by the WBC at their convention next week in Acapulco.

Jose Benavidez Sr. told 15rounds.com Norm Frauenheim that his son signed the contract weeks ago. He also said that the fight will take place no later than March. Three possible venues are Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Dallas.

Jake Paul gallops onto AZ stage and into David Benavidez’ neighborhood

By Norm Frauenheim-

GLENDALE, Ariz. – He rode in on a horse.

Maybe, it was a nod toward Arizona’s wild-west past. Or, maybe, it was his way of saying he was the cavalry, riding to the rescue in an attempt to save a battered game from a head-long gallop to its own demise. Or, maybe, an elephant wasn’t available.

Whatever it was, Jake Paul, an unconventional boxer, enlivened a traditional media event Wednesday with an unconventional entrance for a public workout a few days before his cruiserweight bout with UFC icon Anderson Silva Saturday night on Showtime pay-per-view.

Paul had fun and a crowd of fans on a pavilion outside of the renamed Desert Diamond Arena west of Phoenix had some fun with him.

That’s not to say that Paul also didn’t do some business. He doesn’t just ride horses. He also has some horse sense. If his entrance was an acknowledgement of AZ history, his presence at the Glendale arena was also an acknowledgment of the state’s best-known fighter.

Paul mentioned David Benavidez, telling the DAZN Boxing Show he’d like to be his promoter. Why not? He’s in the neighborhood after all, talking, training and talking at an arena where Benavidez blew out David Lemieux in his last bout on May 21.

Benavidez grew up a few miles east of the arena, formerly known as Gila River. Metro Phoenix is the heart-beat of Benavidez’ emerging fan base. You could hear it, loud and clear, in his three-round demolition of Lemieux.

“David Benavidez,’’ said Paul, who promotes Amanda Serrano. “I think he’s big in the boxing world and he’s a superstar, he’s my favorite boxer, but he needs that push just like Amanda did into the mainstream.

“The kid needs to be on billboards, he needs to be on podcasts, he needs to be collaborating with influencers. He needs help making some content and getting some big sponsorships to get his name out there even more.”

Benavidez already has a promoter/manager in Sampson Lewkowicz. He’s also aligned with PBC. But that doesn’t stop Paul, whose opinions are part of the fun. Both are inexhaustible, always part of the show.

Paul’s tireless self-promotional skill has created a huge virtual universe. Not even Canelo Alvarez can ignore the reported social-media number – 20 million-plus You Tube subscribers. That’s enough to add a zero to even Canelo’s paycheck.

Thus far, however, Canelo has ignored, or at least eluded Benavidez, who is reportedly close to a deal for a fight with Jose Uzcategui in January,

Canelo said after his super-middleweight decision over Gennadiy Golovkin in a third fight in September that Benavidez’ resume doesn’t measure up.

“What has he done?’’ Canelo asked angrily.

He’s done more than Paul, at least he has in boxing terms narrowly defined by an unbeaten record, including a World Boxing Council title that was lost twice — first for a positive drug test and then on the scale.

Yet, Paul has an answer. He proposes to promote Benavidez the way he promotes himself.

Put it his way: It’d be a wild ride.

Greatness? Canelo has one definition, Benavidez has another

By Norm Frauenheim–

LAS VEGAS – Canelo Alvarez says he’s happy to be back on what he calls the path to greatness, a destination that suddenly grew elusive in a stunning loss to Dmitry Bivol four months ago.

It’s still there, of course. Canelo has always talked about greatness as though it’s his destiny. Bivol was just like that bumper sticker. Bleep happens.

Canelo intends to leave it behind and resume his march on history in a long-awaited and long-overdue third fight with Gennadiy Golovkin Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in a DAZN pay-per-view bout.

Everything seems to say that a victory over Golovkin will happen. GGG is 40, the same age Manny Pacquiao was when his career ended against late stand-in Yordenis Ugas a year ago. Canelo is nearly a 5-to-1 favorite.

Nobody gives GGG much of a chance. Then again, few would have ever guessed that Albert Pujols would be closing in on the 700-home-run milestone at 42-years-old either. Remember, bleep happens. Maybe, GGG channels Pujols and hits a homer here. But don’t bet on it.

Expect a Canelo victory. But greatness is different. It’s not an expectation. It’s an argument. At least, it is amid all the talk before GGG and Canelo resume their contentious rivalry.

Canelo, still boxing’s undisputed box-office draw, stirred up controversy about a month ago when asked if he would fight fellow Mexican Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez if Ramirez beats Bivol on Nov. 5.

“I don’t want to fight Mexicans,’’ Canelo said. “I represent Mexico.’’

The comment has been repeated and interpreted. According to one interpretation, Canelo was really saying he wouldn’t fight David Benavidez. The problem with that one is that Benavidez is Mexican-American. He’s from Phoenix. Over the last couple of years, Benavidez has emerged as the one super-middleweight fans would like to see fight Canelo.

But Canelo has moved on to other challenges against other 168-pound contenders, including Callum Smith or Caleb Plant or Billy Joe Saunders. He’s also moved up the scale, beating former light-heavyweight champ Sergey Kovalev and losing to Bivol. None of the moves have included Benavidez.

His comment about not fighting Mexicans, however, is just a further sign to Benavidez father-and-trainer Jose Benavidez Sr. that he never will.

Benavidez Sr. repeated what was said after David’s third-round blowout of David Lemieux last May in Glendale, Ariz. Then, Benavidez manager/promoter Sampson Lewkowicz told the media to forget about Canelo.

“Quit talking about David-versus-Canelo,’’ Lewkowicz said. “It’s fantasy.’’

In so many words, Jose Benavidez Sr. said the same thing four months later after a news conference Thursday at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand.

“It’ll never happen,’’ said Benavidez’ dad. who will be in Diego Pacheco’s corner for a super-middleweight bout against Enrique Collazo on Saturday’s undercard.

Then, Jose Benavidez had a lot more to say, suggesting that Canelo’s planned path to greatness can never happen without a fight against his son. The defining face of great in Mexican boxing is Julio Cesar Chavez.

Go to a barrio gym in Mexico or the United States. Chances are you’ll see at least one photo or poster of the legendary JCC. He’s the icon

“Julio Cesar Chavez became one by fighting everyone,’’ he said. “He fought Filipinos, he fought Americans. It didn’t matter. He fought everyone. Nationality didn’t matter. You only had to be a champion.

“There’s no other way to be great.’’

2-Time World Champion David Benavidez Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 17, in Las Vegas

Las Vegas (July 21, 2022) – Two-time world champion David Benavidez has confirmed that he will appear at the Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega trilogy fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Benavidez will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Mexican Independence Day weekend.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2022

Benavidez will make his second appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing enthusiasts will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this fan friendly Boxing Star also known as

“El Bandera Roja”. More info at: https://davidbenavidez.shop/

Benavidez joins Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Erik Morales as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About David Benavidez

David Benavidez is a Two-time WBC Super Middleweight champion, having held the title from 2017 to 2018 and again from 2019 to 2020. Benavidez holds the record as the youngest Super Middleweight title holder in history by claiming his first belt at 22 years, eight months, and 22 days old. He is considered by many boxing organizations as one of best Super Middleweight and is currently ranked by the Ring Magazine just behind the current world champion Canelo Alvarez.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2022

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Future Four: Benavidez, Ennis, Haney and Stevenson

By Norm frauenheim-

There are a couple of finishers, both forged by a relentless dynamic hard to counter, almost impossible to elude.

Then, there are a couple of craftsmen, both forged in the patient execution of fundamental skill that breaks down, busts up challengers, leaving them confused instead of confident.

They’re fun to watch. They’re also Generation Next, four fighters, 25 and younger, who figure to climb to the top of the boxing marquee, if not the pound-for-pound debate, within the next couple of years.

The finishers: 25-year-old super-middleweight David Benavidez and 24-year-old welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis.

The craftsmen: 24-year-old junior-lightweight Shakur Stevenson and 23-year-old lightweight Devin Haney.

The Future Four have all made powerful statements this spring on who they are and how they might impact the business.

Last Saturday, Haney (28-0, 15 KOs) unified the lightweight title with a jab, a traditional weapon and timely as ever. The defining punch summed up poise and patience that belie his years. George Kambosos Jr. never had a chance in losing a unanimous decision in Melbourne, Australia, his home country, mate.

On May 14, Ennis (29-0, 27 KOs/1 NC) continued to overwhelm anybody in his way. He scored his 19^th stoppage in his last 20 fights. He blew away a somebody, somebody named Custio Clayton, in a second-round knockout. There are a lot of somebodies on Ennis’ resume, which also includes a stoppage of Sergey Lipinets, a former world champion who had never been stopped. Still, Ennis’ skill and one-punch power are impossible to ignore, even if your name is Terence Crawford or Errol Spence Jr. According to reports, a deal for a long-awaited Crawford-Spence fight is close. If the fight in fact happens, it’s fair to say that Ennis will be at least mentioned as one who deserves a shot at the winner. That’s how fast he’s emerging.

A week later on May 21, Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs) looked a like a force of nature in overwhelming David Lemieux in a three-round beat-down in front of roaring crowd in Glendale AZ, about seven miles from the Phoenix streets where Benavidez grew up. The victory was no surprise. Lemieux, brave and faded, was overmatched before opening bell. The stunner, however, was in the way Benavidez won. It was almost scary. It was violent. He was all momentum, a tsunami that looks as if it is just beginning.

In April, there was Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs), who throughout 12 rounds, left Oscar Valdez Jr. with no chance. For the last decade, Valdez was the one fighter who always found a way. Not this time. Like Benavidez, Stevenson figured to win. But nobody figured he would suffocate a fighter known for his resilience.

“Valdez is a hard out,’’ promoter Bob Arum said in a perfect summation.

Haney, Ennis, Benavidez, and Stevenson are following lightweight Tank Davis and bantamweight Japanese bantamweight Naoya Inoue into the elite. Both are older. Both, too, are entering their primes. Davis is 27, Inoue 29

Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) continues to flash his dramatic edge, finishing power, with a sixth-round knockout of Rolando Romero on May 28 in Brooklyn. It was a big crowd. A wild one, too, in a further testament to Davis’ growing box-office power.

Ryan Garcia, who spends more time on social media than he does in the ring, has been calling out Davis. Somebody needs to text Garcia (22-0, 18 KOs) an old line: Be careful what you wish for.

Then, there’s Inoue (23-0, 20 KOs). He might be the only fighter who creates a buzz at sunrise. Sunrise, at least, was when anybody in the United States saw him blow away accomplished Nonito Donaire in a second-round stoppage in Japan. It was more than just a rematch for the bantamweight title. It was re-affirmation of Inoue’s pound credentials. There’s a good argument that he should be No. 1, ahead of Crawford.

Inoue was mentioned as possible opponent for Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez in mid 2015 when Gonzalez, a longtime flyweight champion, had moved up to junior-bantamweight. He also moved up to be the lightest pound-for-pound No. 1 ever. But it was a move up the scale, to junior-bantam, that got him knocked off the pound-for-pound perch. He lost successive fights to Thai Wisaksil Wangek in 2017.

Inoue, a champion at junior-flyweight, skipped a weight class (fly) and went straight to junior bantam and then bantam. He’s still unbeaten.

Davis and Inoue are the first to re-energize the pound-for-pound debate in a shakeup set in motion by Dmitry Bivol’s upset of Canelo Alvarez May 7.

The debate will continue. Maybe, Teofimo Lopez resurrects himself and his career in his first fight since his messy loss to Kambosos in November. Lopez has time on his side. He’s 24. He moves up, from lightweight to junior-welterweight, in a reported deal for an August 13 with Mexican Pedro Campa.

Maybe, there will be a Future Five.

For now, however, the future rests in the eight dangerous hands of four – Benavidez, Ennis, Haney and Stevenson.

Fantasy Meets Reality: Talk about Benavidez-Canelo isn’t going anywhere

By Norm Frauenheim –

It’s a fantasy.

That, at least, is how David Benavidez’ promoter described talk about any chance at a fight with Canelo Alvarez in the wake of Benavidez’ very real beatdown of David Lemieux.

“Quit fantasizing,’’ Sampson Lewkowicz told media about an hour after a violent third-round stoppage of Lemieux at a National Hockey League arena about seven miles from where Benavidez grew up in Phoenix. “There’s no way that Canelo is going to fight the People’s Champ.’’

There no quit in fantasy, however, especially after a dominant exhibition from 25-year-old super-middleweight that got a roaring crowd and Showtime audience fantasizing about just how good Benavidez might be a year, or two, from now.

Put it this way: A little bit of fantasy is a pretty good place to start thinking about negotiations. It’s also a subtle step away from the frustration that has dogged Benavidez throughout his noisy pursuit of a rich date with Canelo.

Benavidez’ victory over Lemieux a week ago at Gila River Arena in Glendale AZ was no surprise. The brave Lemieux, a former middleweight champion, was overmatched in every way. But Benavidez exceeded expectations. The bout was meant to showcase his potential. He did that and more. The clever Lewkowicz called him a People’s Champ. The Lemieux performance was full of more reasons to think he will be one. He’s getting social-media clicks. He’s doing numbers at the box office.

That’s more than fantasy. It’s momentum, which is something Canelo is trying to regain.

This week, Canelo decided to fight Gennadiy Golovkin for a third time instead of an immediate rematch of his stunning decision loss to light-heavyweight Dmitry Bivol.

GGG was a business move, not surprising in the wake of disappointing reports about the DAZN numbers for the pay-per-view telecast of Canelo-Bivol on May 7. The PPV reports varied, but they fell nearly 300,000 short of the PPV sales — reported to be about 800,000 — for Canelo’s victory over Caleb Plant. Plant an American, was – still is — better known than the skilled Bivol, a mostly-unknown Russian.

GGG is 40. His skillset might have eroded, but his name recognition has not. People still know him for his first two fights with Canelo, both debatable. The first was a draw. The second was a majority decision, won by Canelo.

Now, questions follow Canelo as he goes into a decisive third fight with GGG. Was the Bivol loss just a bad night? Was the move from 168 pounds to 175 too much? Is he beginning to show signs of decline? They’ll all be there in September.

So, too, will Benavidez.

For now, Benavidez is first in line for Canelo. With the World Boxing Council’s so-called interim title, Benavidez is supposed to get a mandatory shot at Canelo, if and when the WBC ever orders the fight.

For the rest of this year, however, Benavidez-Canelo is fantasy. Lewkowicz is talking about Plant, Jarmall Charlo or David Morell, an emerging Cuban. perhaps in November. Whoever it is, it’s a fight that could further the fantasy. If Benavidez’ ascendancy continues, fans won’t quit thinking about it. More important, they won’t quit talking about it.

They’ll promote it in ways that Lewkowicz can’t. Could the fantasy become reality next year, say May 6 2023? It depends on Canelo’s performance against GGG. It depends on how Benavidez looks in November.

It also depends on whether Canelo in fact fights Bivol for a second time. He said this week he will. Maybe, a third GGG bout is a steppingstone toward regaining momentum and his pound-for-pound status.

But Benavidez believes that Canelo can’t ever beat Bivol. He says Canelo would lose a rematch. Then what?

“Then, he’s got nowhere to go,’’ Benavidez said before he bulldozed Lemieux. “He’ll have to come back down to 168.

That means me.’’

Fantasy meets reality

David Morrell Responds to David Benavidez“ After my fight I’m going to make you my BITCH”

HOUSTON, TX (May 25, 2022) – Undefeated super middleweight, David Morrell Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), responds to David Benavidez (26-0, 23 KOs) and his comments after his fight with David Lemieux this past Saturday on Showtime. Benavidez referenced Morrell Jr., Caleb Plant and Jermall Charlo as bitches, and that he would knock everyone out.

“I ain’t no bitch and you’re going to find out,” stated David Morrell Jr., who holds the WBA regular title. “I’m from Cuba and I’m not afraid to fight you. I’ve beaten bigger and better fighters than you. So right after this fight I got coming up, get your ass ready.”

David Benavidez and David Morrell Jr. are on a head on collision to bring the fans a war. Both fighters have now addressed interest in making this fight. David Morrell Jr. is scheduled to put his WBA title on the line in a 12-round bout against Kalvin Henderson (15-1-1, 11 KOs), live on Showtime June 4th.

“I have business to handle of June 4th against Henderson, a fight I’m taking very seriously,” concluded Morrell. “After that, I’m on the hunt for Benavidez’ head. “There is no bitch in me, after my fight, I’m gonna make you my bitch” No need to talk no more I’m gonna show you better than I can tell you…see you soon BITCH.”

AUDIO: David Benavidez “I Know these Dudes they can’t take my power and Caleb Plant is no different”

VIDEO: David Benavidez “I Know these Dudes they can’t take my power and Caleb Plant is no different”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT FIGHT WEEK KICKS OFF IN THE BOXING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD AHEAD OF SATURDAY’S STACKED SHOWTIME PPV® CARD

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Boxing’s Top Fighters, Experts and More Give Their Thoughts and Predictions On David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant Blockbuster Event As Fight Week Begins In Las Vegas

Benavidez-Plant: Plenty To Prove

DERRICK JAMES, BOB SANTOS, SUGARHILL STEWARD AND BUDDY MCGIRT QUOTES PREVIEWING DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT

DAVID BENAVIDEZ AND CALEB PLANT MEDIA WORKOUTS QUOTES

VIDEO: ALL ACCESS: David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant | Full Episode (TV14) | SHOWTIME PPV

JESUS RAMOS JR. AND ABEL RAMOS PHOENIX MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

AUDIO: BENAVIDEZ – PLANT SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE

VIDEO: BENAVIDEZ – PLANT SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE

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THREE HIGH-STAKES SHOWDOWNS ADDED TO STACKED DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD ON SATURDAY, MARCH 25 IN LAS VEGAS

Benavidez-Plant: Searching for an edge

VIDEO: David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant: Kick-Off Press Conference | March 25th on SHOWTIME PPV

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT STARS DAVID BENAVIDEZ AND CALEB PLANT TO SETTLE WAR OF WORDS IN HIGH STAKES SHOWTIME PPV® MAIN EVENT CLASH ON SATURDAY, MARCH 25 IN LAS VEGAS

Finally, Benavidez and Plant can settle differences with real fight March 25

Benavidez prepares for Plant, but fans still dream about a date with Canelo

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DAVID BENAVIDEZ RENEWS PROMOTIONAL CONTRACT WITH SAMPSON BOXING

No More Waiting: Caleb Plant agrees to fight to fight David Benavidez

Caleb Plant Signs Contract For Benavidez Fight

Jake Paul gallops onto AZ stage and into David Benavidez’ neighborhood

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2-Time World Champion David Benavidez Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 17, in Las Vegas

Future Four: Benavidez, Ennis, Haney and Stevenson

Fantasy Meets Reality: Talk about Benavidez-Canelo isn’t going anywhere

David Morrell Responds to David Benavidez“ After my fight I’m going to make you my BITCH”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT FIGHT WEEK KICKS OFF IN THE BOXING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD AHEAD OF SATURDAY’S STACKED SHOWTIME PPV^®CARD

SHOWTIME PPV^® COUNTDOWN SHOW LIVE STREAM TO FEATURE UNBEATEN CONTENDERS IN SEPARATE BOUTS LEADING UP TO LONG-AWAITED BENAVIDEZ VS. PLANT EVENT THIS SATURDAY NIGHT

DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT SHOWTIME PPV^® UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT STARS DAVID BENAVIDEZ AND CALEB PLANT TO SETTLE WAR OF WORDS IN HIGH STAKES SHOWTIME PPV^® MAIN EVENT CLASH ON SATURDAY, MARCH 25 IN LAS VEGAS