The veteran trainer didn’t dismiss Opetaia’s ability, but he suggested the unbeaten cruiserweight still has development ahead before facing the division’s most established names.
“Opetaia, I feel he gets hurt every fight he fights,” Benavidez Sr said to Sean Zittel. “He gets hurt with fighters that should not even known. I feel he needs just a little bit more experience.”
IBF champion Opetaia is viewed by fans as the highest fighter in a skinny cruiserweight division. His two victories over former champion Mairis Briedis, who was already in his late 30s on the time, remain probably the most notable wins on his record.
Still, Benavidez Sr believes other champions represent more serious challenges in the meanwhile.
“I see Beterbiev, Bivol, and Ramirez more dangerous than Opetaia,” Jose Sr said. “Don’t get me incorrect, he’s an excellent fighter. He’s going to be an amazing fighter. But without delay he doesn’t have the experience that David has.”
Benavidez Sr. also pointed to Ramirez because the more immediate focus, given the Mexican fighter’s experience and standing in the game. Gilberto previously held a title at super middleweight before moving up in weight and establishing himself as a champion again at cruiserweight.
Benavidez is scheduled to challenge Zurdo in a cruiserweight bout that his father views as a significant opportunity to prove his son can compete successfully above the light-heavyweight division. Jose Sr expects his son to look impressive in that fight.
“That’s the plan,” Benavidez Sr. said when asked about the potential of a stoppage victory. “I feel he’s going to stop him within the ninth or tenth. David can’t just win the fight. He has to look spectacular to get the larger fights.”
While Opetaia stays a possible future opponent, depending on how the cruiserweight division develops, Benavidez Sr suggested the Australian champion still needs more time and experience before being viewed as probably the most dangerous challenge available to his son.
