At one point David Benavidez was considered to be a boxing prodigy. Stories of the way he would handle himself as a teenager sparring against some of the top names in boxing had fans eager and anxious to see what this kid could do as a professional. Fast forward a few years and Benavidez established himself as a boxer and made history by becoming the youngest super middleweight champion ever and it seemed like the possibilities were going to be endless. Things were only going to get bigger and better from here on out but, that was until a speed bump was hit yesterday.
News broke yesterday that Benavidez has tested positive for cocaine. The penalty may not be that bad for the young Champion as he is currently not lined up for a fight. Had he have been under contract for a fight, the repercussions would have been much stiffer. Aside from that, Benavidez is already feeling pressure from his actions and has released an apology via social media.
“I would like to sincerely apologize to the WBC for my actions. I am embarrassed to have this happen and to my all my fans that I lost the respect of I know a lot of people won’t see me the same but I am young and it was a mistake on my behalf.”
While his apology may be sincere, being young is no excuse. Being under the spotlight means every action you take is magnified and if he could learn anything from the likes of Gervonta Davis is people will quickly write you off and criticize you and your career whether you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol in a public setting and just like Oscar De la Hoya, the drug use will follow you around for as long as you are a face in boxing.
Julio Garcia
