Every Thursday at FightHype, I dive into the thick of it, answering questions from dedicated boxing enthusiasts. This week, we’re tackling some intriguing comments and questions about Bivol-Beterbiev, Canelo’s recent moves, and the upcoming Tank Davis fight.
### Bivol vs. Beterbiev
Hey Paul,
I just have a comment today. In my opinion, there’s not much from their past encounters that points to Bivol or Beterbiev being superior. They seem like two elite fighters whose abilities and flaws balance each other out. I see Beterbiev as the stronger and more physical fighter, whereas Bivol seems to be the more skillful boxer.
If neither makes significant adjustments in training, I can only anticipate a draw if they fight a third time. That might be the fairest outcome. Honestly, they’ve both had successful careers, and perhaps it’s time they acknowledged their equal footing and moved on.
Best,
Reggie Cannon
Hey Reggie,
You’re spot-on about Bivol and Beterbiev being evenly matched. But my view diverges a bit. I had Bivol winning both their first and second bouts. Bivol showed an ability to adapt, displaying greater ring intelligence. Beterbiev, while powerful and relentless, didn’t shift gears much, just soldiering on with his usual approach. Bivol’s strategic adjustments, particularly in their latest clash, make me rank him higher, albeit slightly.
A trilogy fight is certainly warranted, and I predict Bivol will secure a more decisive victory this time.
### Canelo and the Riyadh Season
Paul, tell me it’s not true! Hard to believe about Canelo. So, who did he sell out? Was it his fans, the Mexican community, or the PBC? You’d expect him to include a Benavidez fight for the fans’ sake. Similarly, you might think Turki would push for that bout as part of the deal. I can see Canelo cashing in, but as time passes, avoiding Benavidez looks more suspect.
Were you at the event last weekend? Daniel Dubois pulled out, “cough cough!” Didn’t even show to defend his belt. Shakur Stevenson faced off against someone unexpected, and Floyd Schofield missed out on a title shot. It’s odd to see fighters backing out close to the event. Could it be a financial issue? I remember calls for transparency from DAZN and PBC, and I’d love to see how Turki’s managing things.
Cheers,
Na’-il Rahman
Hey Na’-il,
In choosing this path, Canelo turned his back on boxing and his Mexican fans. By committing to this deal, which largely excludes his Mexican supporters for future matches, it feels like he’s disregarding those who elevated him to stardom. Sure, the Saudis threw heaps of money his way, but he was already making heaps with finer control over his fights. Waning into indulgence, you’ve got to wonder how much wealth is enough for him.
As for Benavidez? He doesn’t seem part of Canelo’s strategy, and Turki appears fine with this, provided Canelo remains a fixture in Riyadh. Contrary to Turki’s claims of pursuing the best matchups, his actions tell another story.
It’s indeed odd that two high-profile fighters withdrew from the same card. While I doubt it’s purely financial, the lack of transparency by the Saudis leaves much to speculation. I’m sure they’re losing a lot of money. But how much longer they’re willing to tolerate these losses remains anyone’s guess.
### Tank Davis vs. Lamont Roach
Hey Magno,
Are you still critical of Tank Davis facing Lamont Roach this Saturday? Previously, you had some strong opinions about this matchup. Have you warmed up to it yet? I have a feeling it might be more thrilling than people anticipate. What’s your take?
Regards,
Damon
Hey Damon,
I still see this as a missed opportunity for Tank. At 30, he should be focusing on legacy-defining battles. It’s not that Roach lacks talent, but Davis should be challenging the top-tier opponents in his division. Some argue that Lomachenko and others were out of reach, but what about before these scenarios?
Tank’s skills are formidable, and I regard him as one of boxing’s brightest stars today. That’s why I insist on him engaging in more consequential bouts. Presently, he’s merely besting decent fighters without being truly tested. While I’m eager for him to cement his legacy, I don’t see this upcoming match as a step in that direction. Predictably, the fight might start close, with Davis taking time to find his rhythm before delivering a decisive finish somewhere around the 8th or 10th round.
Got questions or messages for Magno’s Bulging Mail Sack? The cream of the crop will feature in the weekly mailbag segment. Send your thoughts to [email protected].
