David Benavidez successfully defended his WBC light heavyweight title by stopping Anthony Yarde in the seventh round at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Benavidez’s consistent aggression and accurate striking gradually overwhelmed Yarde, forcing the referee to call a technical knockout at 1:59 of Round Seven.
Anthony Yarde, coming in with a record of 27-3, started with strong jabs and heavy shots but struggled to counter Benavidez’s sustained pressure and strategic combinations. Benavidez’s undefeated streak (31-0) continued with a performance that highlighted both patience and precision.
Early Rounds:
Yarde looked bigger and threw solid punches, while Benavidez controlled the distance and landed sharp combinations to both head and body. By the second round, Benavidez had Yarde backed into the ropes multiple times, wearing him down with sustained body shots.
Middle Rounds:
Benavidez maintained dominance through careful positioning and relentless flurries. Yarde’s attempts to respond were limited, and Benavidez’s repeated combinations kept him in control. Body punches and quick jabs continued to accumulate damage, setting up later opportunities for a stoppage.
David Benavidez beating him like a drum 😭
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) November 23, 2025
DAVID BENAVIDEZ STOPS ANTHONY YARDE IN THE 7TH ROUND! #RingIVpic.twitter.com/uBIDHOdwLt
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) November 23, 2025
David Benavidez moving up weight👀 pic.twitter.com/2NP9uPkh9R
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) November 23, 2025
Round Six:
Yarde landed some significant shots early, including a right hand, but fatigue started to show. Benavidez continued applying pressure, alternating stances and delivering crisp combinations. A nosebleed and swelling around the eye became visible signs of Yarde’s wear.
Round Seven:
With Yarde visibly slowed and battered, Benavidez pressed forward relentlessly. A precise left hook followed by rapid-fire combinations prompted the referee to halt the bout, awarding Benavidez the TKO victory.
Post-Fight Notes
After the fight, David Benavidez acknowledged Anthony Yarde’s toughness, praising his effort in the ring. Benavidez gave himself a solid grade for his performance, explaining that he was aiming to secure a clear victory because of the high expectations surrounding the bout. Looking forward, he confirmed his plans to move up to cruiserweight to challenge Gilberto Ramirez for the WBA and WBO titles on May 2.
Official Result: David Benavidez defeats Anthony Yarde via TKO — 1:59, Round 7
