David Benavidez Defends Cruiserweight Titles Against Michał Cieślak
David Benavidez Defends World Cruiserweight Titles Against Michał Cieślak in Glendale
World Boxing Association and World Boxing Organization cruiserweight champion David Benavidez will defend his titles against WBC 90.7 kg titleholder Michał Cieślak on December 5, 2026. The championship bout takes place at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, marking Benavidez’s return to his home city.
The 29-year-old champion enters the ring with an undefeated 32-0 record featuring 26 knockouts. Cieślak brings a 28-2 record with 22 knockouts to the matchup. The Polish challenger secured the vacant WBC cruiserweight title last year by stopping former world champion Jean Pascal in four rounds. A victory for Benavidez would add another world title to his collection, leaving the vacant International Boxing Federation title to be decided separately between David Nyika and Viddal Riley.
Homecoming Return to Glendale and Phoenix Support
Glendale, where Benavidez was born, is located 16 kilometers away from Phoenix, a city of 1.7 million residents. Given the regional population, a complete sell-out of the arena is highly probable for the December fight card.
Benavidez last fought in front of his concittadini four years ago in 2022, when he defeated David Lemieux inside the distance. Organizers have paired the main event with a supporting card featuring Vergil Ortiz vs Thurman, Vargas vs Juarez, and Nikita Tszyu vs Valenzuela.
Title Aspirations and Respect for the Challenger
Speaking with DAZN and Prime Video Sport, Benavidez expressed clear respect for his upcoming opponent’s credentials.
Cieślak is a great fighter. I’ve watched his videos carefully and he’s not a champion by chance. I know he will come ready to fight and push me to the limit. It’s truly a great opportunity for him. So, I won’t leave anything to chance.
Benavidez added that he is fully focused on securing a victory that establishes him at the top of the division. “I feel great. I am finally in a position to become a multi-champion in this weight category,” he stated.