Shakur Stevenson has praised David Benavidez following his dominant knockout victory over Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez and has pointed to two potential blockbuster matchups that he wants to see next for Benavidez.
On May 2, Benavidez locked horns with Ramirez for Latter’s WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles at T-Mobile Arena. He made a statement with his performance.
Benavidez, in his debut bout at cruiserweight, put on pressure from the start against Ramirez, the 34-year-old did not have an answer to ‘The Monster’ speed and power, and succumbed to it in the sixth round, losing the titles via knockout.
The statement wins has put Benavidez’s elite boxers list. He also made history by becoming the first to hold major titles at 168, 175, and 200 pounds.
Shakur Stevenson praises Benavidez’s performance and suggests the next opponents
Stevenson quickly took to X to acknowledge what he saw. He rains praises on Benavidez, acknowledging his ability and believing he has proven himself at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Stevenson suggested that a clash with Dmitry Bivol would be a compelling next move.
“Benavidez is everything he say he is, much respect to him and his craft. I would love to see Bivol get back healthy 100 percent and make that fight,” Stevenson wrote.
Benavidez is everything he say he is, much respect to him and his craft.. I would love to see Bivol get back healthy 100 percent and make that fight
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) May 3, 2026
The comment reflects growing recognition across the boxing world, as Benavidez shook the world with a dominating win over Ramirez.
A potential matchup between Benavidez and Bivol would pit two elite fighters against each other, with both known for their technical ability and composure.
However, Bivol is set to defend his titles against Michael Eifert at UMMC Arena in Ekaterinburg on May 30.
In addition, Stevenson in another X post also highlighted another high-profile option, naming Artur Beterbiev as a dangerous opponent for Benavidez.
“I would like to see Beterbiev vs Benavidez too, I think that’s a fire fight.”
I would like to see Beterbiev vs Benavidez too I think that’s a fire fight 🔥
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) May 4, 2026
That matchup would bring together two powerful fighters known for their aggressive styles, creating the potential for an explosive contest.
Meanwhile, Benavidez has expressed his desire to fight Canelo Alvarez and Bivol,
Additionally, he has also said he is open to taking on Jai Opetaia.
With Benavidez now firmly in the spotlight, multiple high-level options appear to be on the table. Stevenson’s comments add to the growing demand for elite matchups involving the undefeated star.