David Benavidez moves to cruiserweight to face Zurdo Ramirez, chasing history, legacy, and a third division world title.
Undefeated two-division champion David Benavidez (31-0; 25KOs) is preparing for one of the most ambitious moves of his career as he jumps to cruiserweight to face unified WBA and WBO champion Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez. The fight headlines a Cinco de Mayo weekend pay-per-view card at T-Mobile Arena, marking a rare all-Mexican world title clash at the highest level of the sport.
At just 29, Benavidez has already built a reputation as a dominant champion at both super middleweight and light heavyweight. Now, he has the opportunity to make history by becoming the first fighter to win full world titles at 168, 175, and 200 pounds. For Benavidez, the decision to move up is rooted in both confidence and legacy. “Continuing to move up and challenge world champions shows everyone that I'm serious about what I do, and that I believe in my skills 100%,” he said. “Making more history on May 2 would mean the world to me.”
The challenge against Ramirez represents more than just another title opportunity—it’s a stylistic test. Benavidez is known for his relentless pressure, hand speed, and combination punching, and he believes those traits will translate effectively at cruiserweight. “I feel like this weight is definitely gonna help me,” Benavidez explained. “When you combine that power with my speed, I bring something to the cruiserweight division that hasn't been seen since James Toney.”
Another major factor working in his favor is the absence of a draining weight cut. For the first time in his career, Benavidez has been able to train without the physical toll of shedding significant pounds. “This is the most stress-free I've ever been,” he said. “I've never been in a position where I don't have to worry about the weight, and that's gonna make me more dangerous.” That added energy, he believes, could be a decisive advantage on fight night.
Despite his move to cruiserweight, Benavidez has made it clear that his long-term plans still include unfinished business at 175 pounds. “I want to go back down to 175 and win all the rest of the belts and reign there for a little bit,” he noted, while also leaving the door open for a future run at heavyweight later in his career.
Watch insider Dan Rafael go one on one with Benavidez for more insight on the Zurdo Ramirez showdown here:
The pursuit of multi-division greatness inevitably draws comparisons to legends like Roy Jones Jr.. Jones Jr. captured world titles at middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight, and even heavyweight—an extraordinary climb through boxing’s weight classes. Notably, he bypassed cruiserweight altogether, jumping directly to heavyweight glory. Benavidez, by contrast, is attempting to conquer cruiserweight as part of his progression, which could give his résumé a distinct historical edge if he succeeds.
The undercard reinforces the event’s Mexico vs. Mexico theme, featuring high-action bouts including Jaime Munguia taking on Armando Resendiz, along with appearances from contenders like Oscar Duarte and Angel Fierro. Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and its partners, the card is designed as a showcase of elite Mexican talent.
For Benavidez, the mission is straightforward but daunting: defeat a proven champion in a new division and continue building a legacy defined by risk-taking and achievement. As he put it, “At this point in my life, I just want to reach greatness.”