David Benavidez will face Michal Cieslak in Phoenix on December 5, alongside Vergil Ortiz Jr. versus Keith Thurman.
David Benavidez is preparing for the final fight of his current promotional deal in a major title unification bout against WBC interim cruiserweight champion Michal Cieslak. The high-stakes event is officially scheduled to take place on December 5, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona.
This upcoming clash serves as a crucial stepping stone for Benavidez, who recently outlined an ambitious future hit list that includes potential mega-fights against Oleksandr Usyk, Artur Beterbiev, and Jai Opetaia. Before pursuing those matchups, the star must successfully clear his immediate divisional hurdle.
The star-studded fight card also features a compelling co-main event in the 154-pound division, according to information published by mmamania, bringing together elite talent for an action-packed night of professional boxing.
David Benavidez and Michal Cieslak Tale of the Tape
Michal Cieslak enters this championship unification bout riding an impressive seven-fight win streak. The Polish bruiser secured his WBC strap over a year ago with a technical knockout victory against veteran Jean Pascal, bringing his professional record to 28-2-1 with 22 knockouts.
Across the ring, David Benavidez is widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport today. Nicknamed The Mexican Monster, the reigning WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion boasts an undefeated 32-0 record featuring 26 knockouts.
Benavidez is also a former three-division king who previously held prestigious titles, including the WBA and WBO light heavyweight belts, as well as the WBC super middleweight strap.
Vergil Ortiz Jr. Battles Keith Thurman in Co-Main Event
The co-main event of the evening features undefeated star Vergil Ortiz Jr. putting his unblemished 24-0 record, which includes 22 knockouts, on the line. The WBC interim super welterweight champion is looking for a statement performance.
Ortiz will square off against longtime veteran Keith Thurman, who is attempting to rebound following a tough knockout loss against Sebastian Fundora.
A definitive victory for Ortiz could open the door for massive, high-paying title fights against top division rivals like Fundora and Jaron Boots Ennis.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the David Benavidez vs. Michal Cieslak fight?
The cruiserweight title unification bout between David Benavidez and Michal Cieslak is scheduled for December 5, 2026.
Where is the fight card taking place?
The star-studded boxing event will take place in Phoenix, Arizona.
Who is fighting in the co-main event?
Undefeated WBC interim super welterweight champion Vergil Ortiz Jr. will face veteran boxer Keith Thurman in the co-main event.
What titles does David Benavidez currently hold?
David Benavidez currently holds the WBA and WBO cruiserweight championships and is a former champion across three weight divisions.
