Las Vegas is set to host one of the most anticipated boxing matches of early 2025 as David "El Bandera Roja" Benavidez faces off against David "O.D." Morrell Jr. on February 1 at the T-Mobile Arena. This bout, part of the Premier Boxing Champions event known as "A Knockout Night," will see both fighters putting their undefeated records on the line, making it not just a fight, but also personal.
David Benavidez (29-0, 24 KOs), the WBC Light Heavyweight Champion, will take on Morrell (11-0, 9 KOs), the WBA Light Heavyweight Champion, for the interim WBC and WBA titles. The stakes are high, with the winner likely securing a shot at the undisputed light heavyweight title as well as the coveted opportunity to challenge Canelo Alvarez, against whom both fighters have long sought matchups.
The main card of the event starts at 8 p.m. ET, with the fight beginning at approximately 11 p.m. ET. Fans are eagerly waiting not just for the main event but also for the co-main event, where WBC Featherweight Champion Brandon Figueroa faces off against Stephen Fulton Jr. for their title rematch.
For those wanting to watch the fight from home, the pay-per-view livestream is available for $79.95 on Prime Video and includes coverage starting at 6 p.m. ET. To make the event even more accessible, there are various promotional discounts for tickets, enticing fans willing to attend the matches live.
Both fighters have been vocal as they prepare to meet inside the ring. Benavidez, known for his powerful punches, expressed his readiness saying, "These are the type of fighters I want to fight. I want to face guys who think they’re going to knock me out. He’s never fought anyone like me, and I’m going to show everyone there’s levels to this." His confidence is palpable as he anticipates the fight, transforming it from merely physical to deeply personal.
On the other hand, Morrell isn't shying away from the challenge, noting, "Benavidez is considered one of the most dangerous fighters, so when I beat him, everyone will see what I can do. He’s never faced someone like me, and come fight night, he’s going to realize I'm faster, stronger, and smarter than anyone he’s ever faced." His determination hints at the fiery nature of this match-up.
The fight card also features up-and-coming fighters, promising exciting match-ups leading up to the main event. Among them includes Isaac Cruz against Angel Fierro, and rising stars like Jesus Ramos and Mirco Cuello, reinforcing the packed schedule of bouts fans can expect.
Historically, this matchup stands out as both fighters are coming off impressive victories, with Benavidez defeating Oleksandr Gvozdyk for his interim title last June and Morrell claiming victory against Radivoje Kalajdzic. The bout is also expected to draw international attention since it includes well-known boxers capable of captivating audiences.
The Benavidez vs. Morrell fight could also mark the beginning of significant shifts within the light heavyweight division, as both fighters are eyeing the title currently held by Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, who are set for their own rematch later this month.
Notably, betting odds reflect the fierce competition: Benavidez is currently viewed as the slight favorite at -230, with Morrell positioned as the underdog at +180. This indicates how closely matched both fighters are considered, adding to the tension and excitement within the boxing community.
All eyes will be on the T-Mobile Arena as boxing fans anticipate the clash between these two heavyweights. With fervent hopes for the outcome, the fight is not only about the titles but also about pride, legacies, and the future of the light heavyweight division.
With both fighters having expressed their animosity leading up to the match, the atmosphere will be electric, and as Benavidez remarked, "It’s not time to play anymore. It’s really time to see who the best David is." Fight enthusiasts around the world are eager to catch the action on February 1, whether it be from the arena or screens streaming the event live.