Fighting, at least inside the ring, was supposed to be a thing of the past for Jose Benavidez Jr.
Once viewed as a hotshot prospect, the career of Benavidez was dangling in the wind after he was shot in the leg while walking his dog in 2016. Doctors presumed that walking, let alone fighting, would be a minor miracle. But, always defiant when doubted, Benavidez (28-2-1, 19 KOs) brushed off the words of medical advisors and began putting the work in.
In just over two years, not only did the surly contender grab a handful of wins, but he also parlayed those victories into a showdown against Terence Crawford. Things didn’t play out the way he was hoping, but Benavidez refused to be a walking target. At times, he made the pound-for-pound star work. And, just recently, Crawford admitted that Benavidez was one of the toughest fights of his career, despite becoming an undisputed champion recently.
Over the years, apprehension normally sets in for Crawford’s opponents. With 11 consecutive knockout wins, Benavidez can take some solace in how he performed. During that violent seven-year run, the 31-year-old was the only fighter that reached the final round. It isn’t something to brag about, but Benavidez believes that small accomplishment is sort of like a badge of honor.
“I lasted 12 rounds,” Benavidez told a group of reporters. “Yeah I got stopped but I put a helluva fight on. Terence Crawford is the best of the best. He’s been taking everyone out. I’m the only one that’s given him a run for his money.”
Since getting it on, both fighters have gone in different directions. For Benavidez, he vacillated between numerous weight classes. He’ll officially move up even higher when he takes on Jermall Charlo at a catchweight of 163 pounds this weekend.
Oddsmakers may not believe him but Benavidez is incredibly confident that the night will go according to plan. If it does, Benavidez will be on top of the world. He’ll have his pick of the litter and opponents will line up at his front door looking to take him on.
From Benavidez’s point of view, he plans on brushing past those new faces and shaking hands with an old pal. Although he knows it’s unlikely, he’s holding out hope that Crawford will give him the opportunity to redeem himself.
“I would love a rematch at a higher weight but that probably won’t happen. He’s a good guy, I wish him the best in his career.”
