‘Interim’ WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez is days away from his highly anticipated fight against WBA light heavyweight (Regular) champion David Morrell at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. With all the excitement in the air about the fight, fans are eager to learn more about the undefeated boxer, especially his nickname.

Most people know legendary heavyweight champion Mike Tyson gave Benavidez his nickname ‘The Mexican Monster,’ but did you know he is also known as ‘The Red Flag’ or ‘Bandera Roja’? Well, if you didn’t, it’s your lucky day because here’s the real reason Benavidez was given the nickname and what it means.

David Benavidez: A threatening nickname

The nickname ‘Bandera Roja,’ which translates to ‘The Red Flag’ in English, was given to David Benavidez due to his fearsome reputation in the ring. Known for his relentless aggression, Benavidez has secured 24 of his 29 victories via knockout, boasting an impressive 82.76% knockout rate. 

This lethal combination of power and skill makes him a formidable and dangerous opponent. The nickname symbolizes Benavidez’s dominance and serves as a warning to anyone who steps into the ring with him. 

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It reflects not only his aggressive fighting style but also the intimidation factor he brings even before the first bell rings. According to sources, the moniker was coined by analysts who saw his track record as a figurative ‘red flag’ for his challengers—a clear sign of the danger they face. 

And you know what, it suits Benavidez quite well since he has become one of the most avoided boxers on the scene. Even former undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez doesn’t seem to want anything to do with Benavidez.

Canelo has even gone as far as demanding an astounding $200 million to face Benavidez. Interestingly, ‘Bandera Roja,’ or ‘The Red Flag,’ isn’t the only nickname he goes by. 

The real reason Mike Tyson named him ‘The Mexican Monster’? 

Mike Tyson’s nickname for David Benavidez, ‘The Mexican Monster,’ stems from the boxer’s relentless and punishing fighting style. In an interview with KSNV’s News 3 LV, Tyson explained why he chose the moniker, saying, “That’s what he was. Even though he is half Mexican, that’s what he was… pounding people [paw paw paw…], you know what I am talking about. He threw twenty punches [paw paw paw…].”

Tyson’s description captures the essence of Benavidez’s approach in the ring—an unyielding barrage of punches that overwhelms his opponents. Benavidez’s dominant victory over Demetrius Andrade on November 25, 2024, further solidified Tyson’s assessment, with the undefeated fighter showcasing his raw power and skill. Now, the 29-year-old has the opportunity to prove he is a ‘Monster’ not only in super middleweight but also in light heavyweight.

That said, David Benavidez clearly has the public and the experts riled up about his upcoming fight against David Morrell. But the question is, can he live up to his many monikers, especially when fighting against a skilled opponent like Morrell?