Here’s a bold statement: Anthony Yarde believes he’s the first fighter capable of truly testing David Benavidez’s legendary durability. And this is the part most people miss—Yarde isn’t just talking trash; he’s pointing to specific moments in Benavidez’s fights that suggest even the undefeated champion has vulnerabilities. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Benavidez’s chin is celebrated, Yarde argues no one has hit him like he can. Is he right, or is this just pre-fight bravado? Let’s dive in.
David Benavidez, one of boxing’s most dominant forces, has built his reputation on an unshakable chin and relentless power. Even when he was officially knocked down by David Morrell Jr. earlier this year, it was more of a trip than a clean knockdown. Yet, Yarde sees that moment—and others—as proof that Benavidez isn’t invincible. In a recent interview with The Ring, Yarde confidently stated, ‘I don’t think he’s been hit by anybody who hits like me yet.’ Bold words, but are they backed by reality?
Yarde (27-3, 24 KOs) is no stranger to facing—and hurting—elite competition. Despite losses to former light heavyweight champions Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev, he managed to rock both fighters early in those bouts. Kovalev and Beterbiev, known for their own devastating power, eventually turned the tide and stopped Yarde, but his ability to land fight-changing shots is undeniable. Now, he’s aiming to do the same to Benavidez (30-0, 24 KOs) in their upcoming 12-round clash for the WBC light heavyweight title on November 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
But here’s the twist: Yarde isn’t just relying on his power. He’s studied Benavidez’s fights, particularly his unanimous decision win over Morrell. ‘I saw Morrell land a left hook, and Benavidez’s legs dipped a little bit,’ Yarde noted. ‘Even though he dominated the fight, people laughed at that moment. That tells me something.’ Is Yarde onto something, or is he overanalyzing a minor slip?
What’s undeniable is the stakes of this fight. Benavidez, a two-division world champion and No. 9 on The Ring’s pound-for-pound list, is a heavy favorite. Most sportsbooks have him at 10-1 odds or better. But Yarde thrives as the underdog. ‘When I’m in that position, you’ll see the best of me,’ he said. That’s a dangerous mindset for any opponent, especially one as calculated as Benavidez.
Yet, Yarde isn’t naive. He respects Benavidez’s accomplishments, from dominating super middleweight to seamlessly transitioning to light heavyweight. ‘The guy’s still undefeated,’ Yarde admitted. ‘He’s fought the best at my weight and beaten them. I’m a realist. I know what I’m up against, and that’s when you get the best version of me.’
So, here’s the question for you: Can Anthony Yarde crack the Benavidez code, or will the champion’s durability and skill prove too much? Let us know in the comments—this is one fight where opinions are as divided as they are passionate.
