BoxRec

"This was one of the hardest fights I've had," Benavidez said. "It was very tactical in the beginning, but I worked my jab the whole time. It wasn't easy. I'm now the youngest two-time world champion, from Phoenix, Arizona. I've got a lot of respect for Anthony Dirrell, especially the way he fought tonight."

Dirrell, who was hampered by a terrible cut over his right eye from the sixth round on, made no excuses and gave Benavidez credit for beating him.

"I felt it when the punch opened up the cut. Much respect to the champion. He fought his ass off," Dirrell said."

I wish Jesse Hart was still at 168. Him vs. Benavidez would be insane

Great maturity shown by Benavidez. He didn't let Dirrell to drag him in muddy waters and went for a fabolous finish