The relationship between the boxing legends and the new generations is usually complex, and the recent case between the Great Mexican Champion, Julio César Chávez,  and the “Mexican Monster”, David Benavídez was no the exception.

Before his confrontation against Gilberto Ramírez, David Benavídez's environment received with surprise comments that questioned the roots and identity of the young boxer in Aztec territory.

Subscribe to DAZN here and don't miss the best of BOXING

During the promotion of said fight, Chávez stated that in Mexico the boxer wasn't well-known and that, from his perspective, he was considered more American than Mexican.

These words generated a deep wound in the work team of David Benavídez, who have actively sought the support and the affection of the demanding Mexican fans during his entire career.

The emotional impact on Benavídez's team

José Benavídez Sr., the fighter's father and trainer, confessed in an exclusive interview for the specialized media Izquierdazo that the idol's criticisms were difficult for both of them to process.

"He hurt us a little. David was a little upset and so was I. What can I tell you, he's my idol," he declared. trainer and father of the fighter about the feeling of seeing that David Benavídez wasn't given the deserved credit.

The annoyance lies mainly in that other foreign boxers have been historically adopted by the national public, while an athlete with direct roots was denied that recognition.

Faced with this scenario, the team decided to focus on hard work, understanding that the best way to convince the greatest historical reference was through an impeccable performance in the ring.

A recognition that came after the victory

The situation took a total turn after David Benavídez extensively dominated Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez, demonstrating a technical and physical superiority that dispelled any previous doubts.

At the end of the match, it was Julio César Chávez who came into the ring to rectify his stance and offer a public apology for his previous appreciations about the champion's talent.

According to José Benavídez to Izquierdazo, Chávez approached with honesty to admit his error: “Benavídez, I'm going to be honest, I didn't believe in you, the truth… but c*br*n, I don't believe or that there is someone who beats you.” This gesture closed a chapter of frictions, achieving that the idol declared himself officially as another member of David Benavídez's support team.

The consolidation of Mexican support

For the boxer, earning the respect of his reference was as valuable as the victory itself, since he now has the endorsement of the most influential figure in the sport in his country.

Chávez's change of opinion has served for a sector of the fans to begin to see David Benavídez not as a foreigner, but as the legitimate representative of Mexican power in the higher categories.

With doubts dispelled and wounds healed, the focus now turns on the next challenges that will consolidate the legacy of the young monarch.