Diego Pacheco has split with his longtime trainer and manager, Jose Benavidez Snr., BoxingScene learned Monday.
Benavidez, currently in camp with his WBC light heavyweight titleholder son David Benavidez, said Pacheco requested the release with at least two bouts remaining in their alliance, and Benavidez Snr granted it.
“He decided to go a different route. I want the best for him. I think he can be a champion, no problem,” Benavidez said. “He has a lot of talent. I am so thankful and happy to have been with him from when he started to where he is now, ranked No. 1 [recently, though no longer] and ready to fight for a world title. That makes me very satisfied – that I could help get him to that point in his career.”
Benavidez said there was no buyout required for Pacheco to leave, and he believes the unbeaten super middleweight contender is preparing for a December 13 card in California for promoter Matchroom Boxing.
“I only have great things to say about him,” Benavidez said. “I am still a fan. I will still be a supporter. I’m happy for his career.”
Pacheco, 24-0 (18 KOs), is a 24-year-old from South Central Los Angeles. He fought twice this year under Benavidez, claiming unanimous decision triumphs over Steven Nelson in January and Trevor McCumby in July.
Pacheco was the WBO’s top-ranked contender to Canelo Alvarez until Hamzah Sheeraz arrived in the division and stopped Edgar Berlanga. The WBO rankings now have the since-deposed Canelo at No. 1, Sheeraz at No. 2 and Pacheco at No. 3.
Pacheco has yet to formally announce his new manager and trainer.
“Nice kid, great father, great husband,” Benavidez said. “It was a great trip.”
