The veteran trainer didn’t dismiss Opetaia’s ability, but he did suggest that the undefeated cruiserweight still has development ahead of him before facing the division’s most established names.
“Opetaia, I think he’s hurting every fight he fights,” Benavidez Sr. told Sean Zittel. “He gets hurt with fighters who aren’t even known. I think he needs a little more experience.”
IBF champion Opetaia is considered by fans to be the top fighter in a thin cruiserweight division. His two victories over former champion Mairis Briedis, then already in his late 30s, remain the most notable victories on his record.
Still, Benavidez Sr. believes other champions represent more serious challenges at the moment.
“I see Beterbiev, Bivol and Ramirez more dangerous than Opetaia,” Jose Sr. said. “Don’t get me wrong, he’s a good fighter. He’s going to be a great fighter. But right now, he doesn’t have the experience that David has.”
Benavidez Sr. also pointed to Ramirez as the more immediate focus, given the Mexican fighter’s experience and position in the sport. Gilberto previously held a super middleweight title before moving up in weight and re-establishing himself as a cruiserweight champion.
Benavidez is scheduled to challenge Zurdo in a cruiserweight bout that his father sees as a great opportunity to prove his son can successfully compete above the light-heavyweight division. Jose Sr. expects his son to look impressive in that fight.
“That’s the plan,” Benavidez Sr. said. said when asked about the possibility of a stoppage victory. “I think he’s going to go in the ninth or tenth round. David can’t just win the fight. He has to look spectacular to get the bigger fights.”
While Opetaia remains a potential future opponent depending on how the cruiserweight division develops, Benavidez Sr suggested the Australian champion still needs more time and experience before he is considered the most dangerous challenge available to his son.
