Anthony Yarde Promises a Strong Comeback After David Benavidez Loss, Despite Future Concerns

ANTHONY YARDE has promised to return stronger than ever following his devastating defeat to David Benavidez in Saudi Arabia.

However, after suffering three tough world title losses, even Benavidez advised London’s courageous Beast From the East to reflect on his boxing future.

Anthony Yarde vowed to return stronger than ever after his loss to David BenavidezCredit: Instagram / anthonyyarde Yarde was stopped in the seventh roundCredit: Getty

Yarde, 34, left with bruising under his right eye and blood streaming from his nose.

In the wake of his latest light-heavyweight disappointment, Yarde stated: “Those who know me are aware that I’m frustrated. But I will come back.”

“I’ll return better and stronger. Congratulations to Benavidez, a formidable opponent. I understood the challenge I was facing, but I believed I could achieve greatness again.”

“He was the better man tonight, and I’m being truthful. Congratulations to him and his team, and I want everyone to know that I'm okay.”

“Some people are concerned because of my bleeding nose, but I’m fine.”

“I plan to enjoy some good food, take a holiday, and do a few things I won’t mention! But I appreciate the support.”

Yarde came close to dethroning Sergey Kovalev for the WBO title in 2019 before suffering a loss in a Fight of The Year candidate against Russian legend Artur Beterbiev four years later.

However, facing American Benavidez was arguably his most challenging endeavor yet.

Yarde started strong, landing well-timed counters and left hooks.

But his defensive tactics and desire to stay on the ropes ultimately led to his downfall as Benavidez capitalized on the opportunity.

By the sixth round, it was evident that Benavidez’s rapid hand speed was proving too much for Yarde.

Yarde did spark some hope from his corner after pushing Benavidez against the ropes and delivering powerful right hands.

However, his corner soon urged him to hold on as Benavidez shifted the momentum dramatically.

The seventh round began poorly for Hackney’s challenger when a left hook caused his nose to bleed.

He soon found himself on the canvas after a flurry of punches from Benavidez that left him cornered.

Although the clumsy champion hit Yarde while he was down—resulting in a TWO-point deduction—it was inconsequential.

With Yarde bleeding, Benavidez concluded the fight with two powerful left hooks against the ropes.

I will return. I will come back stronger. Congratulations to Benavidez, a serious fighter. I knew what I was facing, but I thought I could pull it off and shock the world again.

Anthony Yarde

Fortunately, referee Hector Afu intervened before further damage could occur, declaring Benavidez the clear victor.

The Arizona native was accompanied by his wife and five-year-old son Anthony at the post-fight press conference.

After becoming the third fighter to inflict painful world title defeats on Yarde, he advised the brave Brit to carefully consider his next steps.

He stated: “It's his decision. He endured a lot of punishment tonight.”

“He has fought three different world champions and taken substantial punishment.”

“He has a lot of heart, but it’s up to him to decide if he wants to return; that’s a question only he can answer.”

Yarde’s long-time domestic rival Joshua Buatsi—who controversially defeated Zach Parker this month—was present ringside, as a potential fight between them remains on the table.

For Benavidez, 28, he announced plans to move up to cruiserweight and challenge Mexico’s WBA and WBO champion Gilberto Ramirez, 34, next May.

He declared: “I have some news for you all, on May 2nd, it will be me versus Zurdo Ramirez as I move up to cruiserweight to challenge for his title.”

A left hook ended the fight for BenavidezCredit: Reuters

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