Roy Jones Jr. urges David Benavidez to prioritize weight division over a potential showdown with Jai Opetaia: 'It’s not smart' | Boxing News
Roy Jones Jr., a 29-year-old former lightweight champion, has called for David Benavidez to consider moving up to heavyweight rather than risking his unbeaten record against Gilberto Ramirez. This decision, which highlights the evolving dynamics of boxing within weight divisions, comes as Benavidez defends his WBO and WBA titles while holding onto his WBC strap at 175 lbs.
Jones emphasizes that staying in cruiserweight poses risks, particularly if he faces Jai Opetaia—his current world title holder. Instead, he advocates for a more strategic approach: going up to heavyweight would allow him to challenge Dmitry Bivol, who must defend his three world titles against Michael Eifert. However, Benavidez may also pursue a matchup with Oleksandr Usyk, a Dutch kickboxer, in light-heavyweight form.
While Benavidez has expressed interest in eventual weight promotion, his most anticipated challenge likely aligns with Bivol. Jones suggests that moving up early is smarter than remaining at cruiserweight and facing Jai Opetaia, as both moves could lead to higher stakes. He adds that if Benavidez loses to Usyk, the opportunity for further competition remains, and losing to Opetaia might mean the fight is over. Ultimately, the decision reflects a broader trend toward weight division as a more balanced and strategic approach in boxing.
