April 30/May 1, Fightweek Ramirez vs. Benavidez, Diary #3 & 4: BOXSPORT author Andreas Selak takes a look at the two rivals – and sees a favorite.
On Thursday, the final press conference for the Gilberto Ramirez vs. David Benavidez duel took place in the Studio Ballroom of the MGM Grand. The sequence was as usual: first the undercard, then the main fighters. To be honest, the questions are often repetitive and you can tell that the boxers would rather finally get into the ring.
Boxing heroes De La Hoya and Chavez in conversation
In the late afternoon, however, there was a real highlight for Cinco de Mayo: a panel discussion (“Opening Bell”) with boxing idol Oscar De La Hoya and Mexican wrestling legend Julio César Chávez, moderated by Bernardo Osuna. The conversation was emotional and exciting. The focus was on their rivalry around 30 years ago, the significance of Cinco de Mayo and a sensitive topic: the acceptance of Mexican-Americans in Mexico. The “Golden Boy” spoke openly about how difficult it was for him as he competed for the USA at the Olympics, even though he is proud of his Mexican roots.
Jimmy Lennon Jr. (r.) in Las Vegas.
On Friday, we went to the public weigh-in in the Grand Garden Arena. Even outside the arena, there was a party atmosphere, accompanied by mariachi music. Ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. gave the crowd goosebumps with “It’s Showtime!”. The atmosphere grew from fight to fight.
Oscar Duarte and the Mexican duel between Jaime Munguia and Armando Resendiz were particularly loud. When “The Monster” Benavidez entered the stage, his energy was immediately noticeable, while “Zurdo” Ramirez remained calm and focused. The final face-off was intense, but ended respectfully.
Ramirez vs. Benavidez: Points win instead of knockout.
All the fighters made the weight. Many expect Benavidez to win early – I believe he will win on points. Ramirez has a lot of experience as WBO and WBA (Super) champion and could survive the critical phases. The decisive factor will be how well Benavidez copes with the move to cruiserweight.
I ended the evening with a relaxed dinner with Cutman legend “Stitch” Jacob Duran.
Click here for part 1 of the Las Vegas diary.
Click here for part 2 of the Las Vegas diary.
