JAKARTA - Boxer's father David Benavidez said that his son is more popular now, after the fans of Canelo Alvarez left the Mexican boxer.
Canelo lost the fight against Dmitry Bivol on 7th May and it was by no means an expected result.
Many think that, despite Bivol's undoubted talent, Canelo has more ability to beat the Russian boxer. However, that was not proven and now Canelo's career is really under the spotlight.
The Mexican will fight Gennadiy Golovkin on September 17 and have a rematch with Bivol in May 2023. If he loses both of those fights, Benavidez will become a rising star in the 168 pound division.
In fact, it could have happened sooner if Canelo played Benavidez. But it looks like that won't happen.
Speaking of the Canelo vs Bivol fight, Jose Benavidez Sr. explained to Fighthype that he was very excited about the duel.
"I was very happy to see the fight. I was blown away," he was quoted as saying by Marca, Wednesday, June 8.
He went on to explain that Canelo's defeat led to an increase in popularity for his son as many of Canelo's fans were less loyal and dedicated to which they turned their support to Benavidez. This is a common theme in boxing, according to the father.
"When Bivol did so well I thought, 'I hope they don't rob him, man' and I was so happy," he recalled.
"To be honest, because of Canelo's defeat, David was mentioned more. He got more fans.
"A lot of people thought Canelo was a monster and no one could beat him. Now all the fans he has, they stabbed him in the back.
"Now they're on David's train. To me, that's boxing. One day they're loyal to you and another day they move on and go to someone else."
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