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David Benavidez

David Benavidez is an American professional boxer born in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1996.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

David Benavidez is an American professional boxer born in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1996. He first became a world champion at super middleweight and later moved up to light heavyweight and cruiserweight, becoming a multi-division champion.

Early life and background

Benavidez was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on December 17, 1996. Sources describe him as American with Mexican family background, and note that he trained and developed in boxing from a young age.

Professional boxing career

He made his professional debut in August 2013, winning by first-round knockout. He quickly built an unbeaten record and became the youngest WBC super middleweight world champion in history after defeating Ronald Gavril.

Move through weight divisions

Benavidez later moved from super middleweight to light heavyweight and then cruiserweight. Sources describe championship success at multiple weights, including titles at 175 and 200 pounds. By 2026, he was reported as a world champion at cruiserweight after defeating Gilberto Ramírez.

Fighting style and reputation

He is widely associated with pressure, volume punching, and knockout power. Media coverage also highlights his transformation from an overweight teenager into a world-level fighter.

Key facts

  • Benavidez became the youngest WBC super middleweight world champion in history after defeating Ronald Gavril.
  • He has competed at super middleweight, light heavyweight, and cruiserweight.
  • He is an undefeated professional boxer in the records provided, with varying totals depending on publication date.
  • He was born in Phoenix, Arizona, and is described as of Mexican-American background.
  • By 2026, he was reported as a world champion at cruiserweight after defeating Gilberto Ramírez.
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Canadian context

Benavidez has relevance for Canadian boxing audiences as a major North American champion whose fights are followed on international boxing cards and by Canadian combat-sports fans.

Frequently asked questions

Who is David Benavidez?
David Benavidez is an American professional boxer from Phoenix, Arizona, known for winning world titles in multiple weight classes.
When was David Benavidez born?
He was born on December 17, 1996.
What is David Benavidez's nickname?
He has been called "Red Flag," "El Monstro," and "The Mexican Monster."
What weight classes has he fought in?
He has competed at super middleweight, light heavyweight, and cruiserweight.
What was his biggest early career milestone?
He became the youngest WBC super middleweight world champion in history after defeating Ronald Gavril.
Is David Benavidez undefeated?
The provided sources describe him as undefeated, though the exact record total varies by publication date.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Benavidez
    Supports: Professional debut and early career details.
  2. Wikipedia (German)https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Benavidez
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, and super middleweight championship background.
  3. World Boxing Councilhttps://wbcboxing.com/en/david-benavidez-from-adversity-to-wbc-light-heavyweight-world-champion-glory/
    Supports: Birth details, professional debut, super middleweight title, light heavyweight championship, and 2025 title developments.
  4. WBAhttps://www.wbaboxing.com/wba-boxer-profile?id=3935
    Supports: Birth date, height, reach, weight class, and championship status.
  5. BBC Sporthttps://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/articles/cy7ezxmz08po
    Supports: Background, physical transformation, and championship status.
  6. Premier Boxing Championshttps://www.premierboxingchampions.com/david-benavidez
    Supports: Career overview and multi-division championship claims.
  7. Tapologyhttps://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/210762-david-benavidez-el-bandera-roja
    Supports: Given name, birth date, birthplace, and fighting location.