David Benavidez beats David Morrell Jr.

David Benavidez didn’t quite administer the punishment he promised before the championship fight, but he did more than enough to defeat David Morrell Jr.’s WBA light heavyweight title.

The Mexican Monster earned a unanimous decision over his Cuban rival Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Benavidez had promised to break Morrell’s mouth during a promotional tour ahead of the fight. The Phoenix, Arizona, star didn’t deliver on that promise. Nonetheless, he ran his perfect record to an impressive 30-0 to retain his WBC light heavyweight belt.

Benavidez and Morrell delivered a fight worthy of consideration for Fight of the Year.

“This is ‘El Monstro’s’ world,” Benavidez said while identifying himself by his Mexican nickname. “Shout out to Morrell. I knew he’d be tough, and that’s why I prepared so hard for this. I’m happy we were able to give the fans a great show tonight.”

Morrell (11-1) tasted defeat for the first time in his professional career despite sending Benavidez down to the canvass in the 11th round.

David Benavidez praises Morrell

Both fighters were gracious after the grueling bout. David Benavidez has been asking for a bout against Saul “Canelo” Alvarez for several year, but the Mexican legend has refused to face him. Unable to secure a fight against Alvarez, Benavidez accepted the bout against Morrell.

“It was a good fight,” Morrell said. “This is boxing. Some days you win and some days you lose. Tonight was my turn. I’m young, and I’ll keep pushing for another opportunity.”

David Benavidez earned the unanimous decision by a good margin. Two judges scored the bout 115-111. The other judge scored it even more in Benavidez’s favor, 118-108.

Both fighters were busy throughout. Morrell threw 601 punches, and Benavidez fired off 553. Benavidez was more accurate, though. According to CompuBox, Benavidez landed 224 of his punches while Morrell landed 165.

Despite his words coming into the fight, Benavidez praises Morrell’s talent.

Mutual respect  

“I wasn’t surprised by anything he did because I knew he was a great fighter and that I had to prepare for everything,” Benavidez said. “I knew my defense had to be good.

“I actually thought he’d hit harder once we were in here. He was easier to hit than I expected. Every opportunity that I saw, I went for it.”

Morrell was equally complimentary while still sounding confident. He clearly hopes for a rematch.

“It was never bad blood for me,” Morrell said. “This moment feels great because we were able to give everyone a good show. I’m going to work my way back.

“We’ll watch this fight and learn from what I didn’t do well. We’ll practice more and train harder and earn another fight against Benavidez. I know I can beat him.”

Stephen Fulton Jr. (23-1,) earned a unanimous decision Brandon Figueroa to win the WBC featherweight world championship in the co-main event.

Former world champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz  (27-3-1, 18 KOs) returned to his winning ways. Cruz and Angel Fierro delivered a true 10-round classic, living up to tradition of All-Mexican brawls. Cruz (23-3-2) received the unanimous decision (98-92, 97-93, 96-94), but Fierro matched him as they combined for 1,410 punches.