David Benavidez looks to win a title in his third weight class, while Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez is aiming to score the biggest win of his career when these two clash for Ramirez’s cruiserweight titles in our featured boxing attraction of the weekend.
Benavidez is the favorite at -390 while Ramirez is a +290 underdog. Benavidez aims to secure not just a title in a third weight class, but a chance to rise to the status of a boxing superstar with a win on Saturday, May 2, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Ramirez vs Benavidez prediction and pick
- My fight prediction: Benavidez moneyline (-390 at DraftKings)
- My best bet: Benavidez by decision (-135 at DraftKings)
Fight analysis
With Saul “Canelo” Alvarez taking an extended look at his career prospects following his one-sided loss to Terence Crawford last year, the door has finally opened for David Benavidez to take the torch as the next premier Mexican champion. His Cinco De Mayo weekend showdown with compatriot Gilberto Ramirez may not be the coronation he was hoping for, but Benavidez is ready for the moment.
The former Super Middleweight and current Light Heavyweight champion is in the prime of his career and coming off a stoppage win over Anthony Yarde last February. Benavidez possesses exceptional conditioning, high-volume punching, and strong inside fighting skills that make him a nightmare matchup. Though not as physically imposing at light heavyweight and perhaps less so in this move to cruiserweight, Benavidez’s power is formidable and can break opponents down over time.
Ramirez isn’t a true cruiserweight per se, as the current champion moved up from light heavyweight after a disastrous loss to Dmitry Bivol and has limited options to secure a major fight. Since moving up, Ramirez has made the most of his skill and experience by outclassing his opponents and showing a sturdy chin during exchanges. While he’s been in the division longer than Benavidez, they’re likely closer in size.
Ramirez’s campaign at cruiserweight hasn’t been impressive, and this fight would likely look the same if it were held at light heavyweight. Ramirez is a conventional fighter, so Benavidez’s dynamism and skill will wear him down. "Zurdo"'s best chance of winning comes from relying solely on repeatedly clinching Benavidez and being the busier fighter when nothing is happening.
Benavidez is the better fighter in every measurable category. He’s younger, faster, stronger, and more athletic. While Ramirez is a fine fighter, he won't go into the grinder to try and win this one. Benavidez will outwork Ramirez for the win.
Best best analysis
Benavidez has looked strong at light heavyweight, and against a similarly sized fighter as Ramirez, he should be just as effective. Ramirez has a great chin and hasn’t been dropped or knocked out in his professional career. My best bet is that Benavidez wins this fight by decision.
COVERS INTEL: This Cinco De Mayo weekend clash will be the first for both Benavidez and Ramirez.
Gilberto Ramirez vs David Benavidez odds
| Method of victory | Gilberto Ramirez | David Benavidez |
|---|---|---|
| Win outright | +290 | -390 |
| Win by KO/TKO | +850 | +280 |
| Win by points or decision | +500 | -135 |
| Draw | +1800 | +1800 |
Odds courtesy of DraftKings as of May 2.
Gilberto Ramirez vs David Benavidez tale of the tape
| Ramirez | Benavidez | |
|---|---|---|
| 34 | Age | 29 |
| 6-foot-2 1/2 | Height | 6-foot-2 |
| Cruiserweight | Weight Class | Cruiserweight |
| 75 inches | Reach | 74 1/2 inches |
| 48-1 | Record | 31-0 |
| 30 | Wins by KO | 25 |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
