David Benavidez has assessed whether Floyd Mayweather’s defensive nous would be enough to combat the speed and power of Ryan Garcia.

The two Americans could end up colliding in a bizarre showdown early next year, with Garcia having named February 6 as a potential date.

Equally, the WBC welterweight champion may end up squaring off with Teofimo Lopez, who currently holds the WBA strap at 147lbs.

In theory, this would be a unification match, yet Lopez could be stripped of his title if he refuses to defend it against mandatory challenger Jack Catterall.

If that scenario plays out then Garcia might instead face Mayweather, who has not fought professionally since his 10th-round stoppage of Conor McGregor in 2017.

At the age of 49, too, the Hall of Famer would be facing a two-decades younger Garcia if he commits to putting his 50-0 record on the line.

Speaking to a selection of media, meanwhile, unified cruiserweight champion Benavidez said he would favour his friend, Garcia, but could nonetheless see Mayweather making for a competitive contest.

“It’s a tough fight, because Floyd is Floyd. But he’s [nearly] 50 years old. With all due respect, I don’t think a 50-year-old can take a left hook from Ryan Garcia. But if anybody can defend [against] Ryan Garcia, it’s Floyd.

“No disrespect to Floyd, but I just think Ryan Garcia is in his prime right now. Everything is an advantage for him – his speed, power [and] coming off great finishes in his fights.”

While Mayweather continues to flirt with a possible comeback, it remains to be seen whether the multi-million dollar lawsuit – filed against him by CSI Sports earlier this year – will allow him to face Garcia.