The World Boxing Council (WBC) have announced that either David Benavidez or David Morrell will become the mandatory challenger for their light heavyweight title.
On February 1 the two unbeaten talents collide in a hugely anticipated battle at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Benavidez, 29-0 (24 KOs), currently holds the WBC’s Interim belt while Morrell, 11-0 (9 KOs), is the WBA ‘Regular’ strap holder. But the winner of next week’s tussle will hold a shot at a legitimate world title in their hands.
Three weeks after their rivalry is settled Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol renew acquaintances in Riyadh for the undisputed crown at 175lbs. The four belts belong to Beterbiev after he squeezed past Bivol by split decision three months ago. Whoever wins the rematch must defend their WBC title against the Benavidez-Morrell winner.
In a post on their X account the WBC gave updates on each division but regarding light heavyweight they wrote, “Interim champion David Benavidez will fight David Morrell on February 1. The winner will be the mandatory challenger of the division to fight the winner of Beterbiev vs. Bivol.”
There are also world title implications for an all-British fight on the Beterbiev-Bivol undercard. Joshua Buatsi faces Callum Smith over 12 rounds with Buatsi’s WBO Interim strap at stake. Smith is currently ranked number seven in their rankings and the victor will also expect a shot at the champion later in 2025.
