Quebecer David Lemieux and his American opponent David Benavidez both respected the weight limit, Friday, 24 hours before their confrontation in Phoenix.
At stake: the title of interim WBC super middleweight champion.
Lemieux swayed the scale at 166.2 lbs in the scorching sun, while his rival was two ounces heavier, at 166.4 lbs.
Facing Benavidez, Lemieux will be in a fourth fight in the 168 lbs division. He won each of the first three duels in this weight class.
The boxer represented by Eye of the Tiger Management (44-6, 36 KOs) said he was well aware of the importance of Saturday’s confrontation, presented in front of a crowd that will be hostile to him at the Gila River Arena.
After all, the opportunity will be great for the winner, as the latter will become the mandatory contender for the belt held by Mexican Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.
“I’m very happy to be in Phoenix and to be part of the main event. Benavidez is quite a fighter, but I’m here to walk away with the belt,” Lemieux said after making weight.
His opponent allowed himself to make a prediction as to the outcome of the fight, and it will surely not delight the Quebecer.
“It will be a very exciting fight for the fans, I am very happy to be back fighting in front of my fans. I can assure you that this clash will not go to the limit,” Benavidez promised.
