Why Didn't Benavidez Fight Edwards? Examining The Edwards-Berlanga A-Side Dispute

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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The Allure of a Benavidez-Edwards Bout

The potential Benavidez-Edwards fight promised to be a spectacular event, a clash of styles and power that would have captivated boxing fans worldwide. Both fighters brought considerable weight to the table, making the missed opportunity all the more frustrating.

Benavidez's Claim to a Title Shot

David Benavidez, with his aggressive fighting style and devastating knockout power, possessed a compelling argument for a title shot. His impressive record, punctuated by numerous highlight-reel knockouts, solidified his position as a top contender. Despite a controversial disqualification in the past, his undefeated record (excluding the DQ) speaks volumes about his talent and dominance in the super middleweight division.

• Devastating Knockout Power: Benavidez's punches consistently ended fights prematurely.
• Undefeated Record (excluding DQ): His consistent wins highlighted his skills and potential.
• Aggression and Fighting Style: His relentless attacks made him a formidable opponent.
• Public Expression of Interest: Benavidez repeatedly voiced his desire to face Edwards.

Edwards's Position and Reputation

Errol Spence Jr., a reigning welterweight champion, brought an established reputation and multiple championship belts to the table. His undefeated record and polished boxing skills presented a significant challenge for any opponent, including Benavidez. Spence’s selective approach to opponents, however, ultimately played a role in the fight's demise.

• Multiple Championship Belts: Spence held significant titles in the welterweight division.
• Undefeated Record: A testament to his skill and dominance.
• Refined Boxing Skills: A sophisticated style, contrasting Benavidez's raw power.
• Selective Opponent Choice: Spence’s preference for certain matchups influenced negotiations.

The A-Side Dispute and Contractual Negotiations

The heart of the issue lies in the complexities of A-Side and B-Side negotiations, a common yet often contentious aspect of professional boxing. These negotiations determine not only the fighters' purses but also crucial control over various aspects of the fight.

The Power Dynamics of "A-Side" and "B-Side"

In boxing, the "A-Side" fighter holds significant leverage. This translates to considerable advantages both financially and contractually.

• Higher Purse: The A-Side fighter receives a larger share of the fight's revenue.
• Greater Control: They often have more influence over fight location, date, and promotional elements.
• Favorable Contract Terms: The A-Side enjoys more beneficial terms within the contract.

Breakdown of the Reported Stumbling Blocks

The Benavidez-Edwards negotiations faltered due to several key disagreements. While specifics remain largely confidential, reports suggest significant hurdles in financial demands and promotional control.

• Financial Disparities: A considerable gap likely existed between the fighters' financial expectations.
• Promotional Control: Disagreements over promotional partners and strategies likely contributed to the breakdown.
• Contractual Hurdles: Other unspecified contractual terms might have proven insurmountable.

The Impact of the Berlanga Fight on the Benavidez-Edwards Scenario

Ultimately, Errol Spence Jr. opted to face another opponent, the rising star Edgar Berlanga, instead of Benavidez. This decision sheds light on the strategic considerations influencing high-level boxing matchups.

Berlanga as an Alternative Opponent

The choice of Berlanga over Benavidez suggests a calculated risk assessment on Spence’s part. Perhaps Berlanga presented a lower risk, a more manageable opponent in terms of style and potential outcome, or a more financially lucrative deal.

• Berlanga's Profile and Appeal: Berlanga, though less established than Benavidez, offered a different type of challenge.
• Perceived Risk Assessment: Benavidez's aggressive style likely represented a higher risk compared to Berlanga.
• Financial Considerations: The Berlanga fight might have offered Spence a more favorable financial agreement.

Long-Term Implications for Benavidez

The missed Edwards fight undoubtedly impacted Benavidez's career trajectory. While he continued to compete and perform at a high level, the opportunity to face a reigning champion was lost, potentially delaying his path to an undisputed title.

• Subsequent Fights and Performance: Benavidez continued to prove himself but lacked the high-profile matchup against Edwards.
• Current Status and Future Prospects: While still a top contender, the missed opportunity might have slightly altered his career path.
• Impact on Public Perception: The lack of the Edwards fight might have lessened Benavidez's exposure to a wider audience.

Conclusion

The failure of the Benavidez-Edwards fight underscores the complexities of A-Side negotiations in professional boxing. Disagreements over financial terms, promotional control, and perceived risk assessments ultimately prevented this highly anticipated matchup from materializing. Both fighters' career trajectories were affected, highlighting the significant impact of these contractual disputes on the sport.

What do you think would have happened if Benavidez fought Edwards? What's next for Benavidez? Discuss the future of A-Side negotiations in boxing and share your predictions for upcoming high-stakes matchups! Let's continue the conversation about the Benavidez-Edwards fight and other significant events shaping the world of professional boxing.