David Benavidez (record 30-0-0, 24 KOs) is expected to soon be designated as the mandatory challenger for unified world light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol (record 24-1, 12 KOs), according to the WBA. Previously, the WBC had also ordered this matchup, but Bivol opted not to defend his title against Benavidez and consequently vacated the WBC belt.
The WBA recognizes David Benavidez, who holds a significant title status (stated here as Regular WBA champion at 79 kg after beating David Morrell), and will soon establish a date by which Bivol must defend his WBA belt against Benavidez.
Bivol, who currently holds the WBA, IBF, and WBO belts, is reportedly scheduled for a third bout against Artur Beterbiev in October. Following that, a rematch with Saul `Canelo` Alvarez is potentially on his agenda. As a result, it is quite likely that the 34-year-old champion may choose to relinquish another one of his titles.
