American WBA and WBO cruiserweight world champion David Benavidez has publicly reacted to Oleksandr Usyk's statement regarding his intention to return to cruiserweight for a farewell bout. The undefeated 29-year-old boxer from the USA assured that he will gladly accept the challenge of the Ukrainian grandee and called it an honor to be among the desired opponents for the final "Last dance" of Usyk's career.
"It's going to be legendary": Benavidez evaluates the scale of the confrontation
In his statement, Benavidez emphasized that a potential fight against Usyk will be one of the most significant matchups in modern boxing history. "It is a great honor for me that Oleksandr Usyk is even considering me as an opponent for his last fight. He has had an outstanding career, but this time victory will definitely be on my side. I am ready to move up in weight myself and accept this challenge. It will be a huge test, but I am 100% confident in myself," the American stated. Thus, Benavidez not only confirmed his readiness for the fight but also openly positioned himself as the favorite for the upcoming clash.
Intermediate stage: unification bout with Cieslak on December 5
On the path to a hypothetical fight with Usyk, Benavidez has a specific intermediate step. On December 5, 2026, the American will fight current WBC champion Michal Cieslak of Poland (28-2, 22 KOs). At stake in this matchup will be the unification of cruiserweight championship titles. Victory in this fight will strengthen Benavidez's position as the mandatory challenger and elevate his status in the schedule of future title matches.
Usyk's scenario: from the vacant IBF belt to undisputed championship
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Usyk could fight for the vacant IBF cruiserweight belt. In case of a successful turn of events, the Ukrainian will get the opportunity to contend for the title of undisputed world champion. Exactly this scenario for Usyk's future career was outlined the day before by his manager Sergey Lapin. According to his calculations, a potential bout for undisputed championship between Usyk and Benavidez could take place in 2027.
Benavidez's record and title collection
David Benavidez remains undefeated in the professional ring: his record stands at 32 wins, with 25 coming by way of knockout. The American has won championship belts in three weight divisions — he held the WBC super middleweight title, as well as the WBC, WBA, and WBO championship belts in light heavyweight and cruiserweight. Benavidez fought his last bout in May 2026, when he knocked out Mexico's Gilberto Ramirez in the sixth round to become the WBA and WBO cruiserweight world champion.
