David Benavidez's father, Jose Benavidez Sr., has made a bold claim, accusing the team of Jai Opetaia of avoiding their calls. This comes amidst Benavidez's recent success as a three-division world champion, further solidifying his status as one of the best fighters in the world. The 29-year-old Benavidez has a plethora of options, including a potential drop back down to light-heavyweight for an undisputed clash with Dmitry Bivol, or remaining at cruiserweight and facing Jai Opetaia, a two-time IBF world champion. However, the tension between Benavidez and Opetaia's team has escalated, with Benavidez Sr. revealing that his calls are not being returned.
In an interview with MillCity Boxing, Benavidez Sr. expressed frustration, stating that he has been trying to reach Opetaia's manager and team without success. He even sent a direct message to Opetaia, urging him to facilitate the fight and get his manager to call him. Benavidez Sr.'s words suggest a potential power struggle, where Opetaia's team might be hesitant to engage due to concerns about Opetaia's readiness for Benavidez. This could be a strategic move to avoid a potential loss, as Benavidez's prowess in the ring is undeniable.
The situation raises questions about the dynamics between fighters and their teams. Are managers and teams always acting in the best interest of their fighters? Or are there hidden motives, such as protecting a fighter's reputation or market value? Benavidez Sr.'s accusation highlights the complex relationship between fighters and their management, where personal interests and professional goals often collide. It also underscores the importance of transparency and communication in these relationships, as a lack of dialogue can lead to misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
Furthermore, the potential fight between Benavidez and Opetaia is a significant one, as it would determine the future of the cruiserweight division. Opetaia, a two-time IBF world champion, is widely regarded as the top dog in the division, and a win for Benavidez would further solidify his legacy. However, the current situation with Opetaia's team not responding to calls could be a strategic move to gauge Benavidez's interest and commitment to the fight. It remains to be seen how this will play out, but one thing is certain: the cruiserweight division is about to get a lot more exciting.
