PARADISE, NEVADA (February 1, 2025) – The electrifying matchup between David Benavidez and David Morrell at the T-Mobile Arena delivered an unforgettable night of boxing action. From the outset, the tension was palpable as both fighters chose not to touch gloves at the face-off, setting the tone for an aggressive and intense contest.
Round 1: The first round saw both fighters come out swinging, with Morrell pushing Benavidez back early on. The battle for control was fierce, and Benavidez, known as “El Monstero,” began to pull down Morrell’s hand to land left hooks.
Round 2: Benavidez continued his aggressive approach, landing hard shots, but Morrell answered back with effective counters and even indulged in some showboating to end the round. Both fighters displayed effective boxing skills.
Round 3: Benavidez managed to corner Morrell, but the Cuban fought his way out with impressive combinations. Morrell landed several shots, prompting Benavidez to taunt him with calls to “bring it on,” responding with body hooks and head shots.
Round 4: A cut appeared over Benavidez’s left eye as he entered the round. Morrell showcased his defensive skills but still took a few hard hits. A strong left from Benavidez initiated a successful combination, and both fighters hurt each other in the dramatic final 30 seconds. Benavidez nearly went down after a right from Morrell.
Round 5: The last minute of this round saw both men working effectively when backed against the ropes. Benavidez landed a solid liver shot in the exchange.
Round 6: Benavidez returned to his strategy of pushing Morrell to the ropes and targeting the body. Midway through, he landed a hard uppercut that invigorated Morrell, but Benavidez still dominated the exchanges.
Round 7: This round featured more distance fighting, with Benavidez excelling there and in close-quarters combat.
Round 8: Benavidez displayed excellent boxing skills, scoring seemingly at will. Despite taking numerous shots, Morrell showed great heart and resilience.
Round 9: Morrell allowed Benavidez to tire himself out before going on the offensive. However, his efforts fell short of making a significant impact.
Round 10: Morrell started the round with more activity, but Benavidez landed a 1-2 combination three times in succession in the second minute. Benavidez scored effectively with bodywork and hard right-hands.
Round 11: Morrell scored a knockdown with just 30 seconds left. However, a hard right after the bell cost him a point, as the referee intervened.
Round 12: Morrell came out determined to capitalize on his momentum but faced a strong response from Benavidez. Morrell took an awkward step after receiving a shot on the inside. The Cuban suffered a cut under his left eye from Benavidez’s jabs.
In the end, the judges scored the bout 115-111 (twice) and 118-108, all in favor of David “El Monstero” Benavidez, who emerged victorious in this thrilling encounter.
The highly anticipated bout lived up to its hype, delivering high drama and showcasing the skill and determination of both fighters
