Why Didn't Benavidez Fight Edwards? Berlanga's A-Side Demands & The Fallout Explained

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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David Benavidez's Stance and Readiness

Benavidez consistently voiced his eagerness to face Spence Jr., viewing it as the ultimate test to prove his dominance in the boxing world. His undefeated record and impressive knockout power fueled his claim for a title shot. He repeatedly called Spence out, confident in his ability to secure a victory.

• Dominant Wins: Benavidez's recent victories, characterized by aggressive fighting and devastating knockouts, solidified his position as a top contender. These wins significantly boosted his ranking and amplified the calls for a Spence fight.
• Intense Training: Known for his rigorous training regimen and explosive fighting style, Benavidez showcased unwavering dedication to his craft, further emphasizing his readiness for a high-profile bout like the one against Spence.
• No Significant Setbacks: At the time of the negotiations, Benavidez didn't report any significant injuries or setbacks that could have hampered his ability to compete against Spence. He was clearly in peak fighting condition.

Errol Spence Jr.'s Perspective and Scheduling Conflicts

Spence Jr.'s decision to not face Benavidez stemmed from a confluence of factors, primarily revolving around contractual obligations and strategic considerations within his career trajectory. His promotional ties and the financial stakes involved in various fight options significantly influenced his choices.

• Other Opponents: Spence Jr. had other fights on his radar, including potential bouts that offered greater financial rewards or strategic advantages in terms of title defenses and promotional opportunities.
• Financial Risks & Rewards: A fight against Benavidez, while highly lucrative, also presented significant risk. Benavidez’s aggressive style posed a potential threat to Spence's undefeated record and his status as a top pound-for-pound boxer.
• Public Statements: While Spence Jr. and his team didn't directly address the Benavidez fight in detail, their silence and focus on other opponents signaled their priorities.

Edgar Berlanga's Influence and A-Side Demands

The burgeoning star power of Edgar Berlanga played a significant, albeit indirect, role in the situation. Berlanga’s growing profile and his demands for a more prominent position within the boxing hierarchy influenced the negotiations.

• Berlanga's Market Value: Berlanga's impressive knockout streak and rising popularity increased his market value, giving him leverage in negotiations. This inevitably impacted the broader landscape of fight scheduling.
• Promotional Power Dynamics: The influence of Berlanga’s promoters and their relationship with networks and other stakeholders played a crucial role in the decision-making process.
• Ripple Effect: Berlanga's demands didn't just affect his own fights; they created a ripple effect that potentially influenced the scheduling and negotiations for other high-profile bouts, including the Benavidez vs Spence showdown.

The Fallout and Future Implications

The failure to secure the Benavidez vs Spence fight resulted in disappointment for fans and impacted both fighters' career trajectories. The lack of a high-profile matchup potentially shifted the dynamics of both the welterweight and super middleweight divisions.

• Alternative Opponents: Benavidez and Spence Jr. subsequently pursued other fights, highlighting the ever-shifting landscape of the boxing world and the need for both fighters to maintain momentum.
• Shifting Power Dynamics: The outcome impacted the rankings and perceptions of both fighters. This underscores the ever-present challenges and complexities of securing major boxing matches.
• Future Careers: The long-term impact on the careers of Benavidez, Spence Jr., and even Berlanga remains to be seen, but their future fights will undoubtedly be shaped by this missed opportunity.

Conclusion:

The unrealized Benavidez vs Spence fight highlights the complex interplay of contractual obligations, promotional strategies, and the rising influence of fighters like Edgar Berlanga. While Benavidez expressed readiness, Spence Jr.'s strategic choices and the broader promotional landscape ultimately prevented the fight from happening. What are your thoughts on the future of a Benavidez vs Spence fight? Who do you think Benavidez should fight next? Will we ever see these two titans in the ring? The anticipation surrounding a potential future clash between Benavidez and Spence remains, underscoring the ongoing allure of this unrealized boxing dream.