David Benavidez (32-0, 26 KOs) is close to finalizing a WBC cruiserweight unification fight against Noel Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs), with promoter Sampson Lewkowicz confirming that an agreement has nearly been completed.
“The agreement has been reached,” Lewkowicz said.
Don King is expected to sign the agreement on Mikaelian’s behalf. A victory would give Benavidez three of boxing’s four recognized cruiserweight titles, adding Mikaelian’s WBC belt to the WBA and WBO championships he already holds.
The IBF title remains vacant after Jai Opetaia was stripped earlier this year and is expected to be filled through a separate championship fight.
Mikaelian has fought only once since November 2023, defeating Badou Jack by unanimous decision in December 2025 to regain the WBC title. Despite holding the belt, he has a considerably lower mainstream profile than Benavidez and Opetaia.
Opetaia remains widely regarded as one of the division’s leading fighters. A future fight between Benavidez and Opetaia would carry greater significance in determining the cruiserweight division’s top boxer.
Benavidez has also discussed eventually moving to heavyweight, where fights against leading contenders such as Moses Itauma could present additional high-profile opportunities.