Celebrity boxer David Benavidez and entrepreneur wife Karina Silva recently put down roots in Miami.
BY STEPHANIE SMITH
David Benavidez, a Phoenix native and two-time undefeated world champion boxer, has dedicated much of his life to mastering the art of boxing. Familiarly known as the “Mexican Monster” for his formidable fighting style, Benavidez became the youngest 168-pound World Champion in boxing history at just 20 years old. While his life remains deeply rooted in the sport, it is Miami that has now captured his heart. Together with his wife, Karina Silva – a successful entrepreneur – the couple has embraced a new chapter in the vibrant Brickell area.
“We came to Miami without intending to stay,” Karina shares. Initially, David split his training time between Seattle and Miami, having already owned a condo in the area. Yet, a family visit to the city’s dynamic culture and community changed everything. “We were here for about three months, and then we thought, ‘Why go back?'” David recalls. It was realtor Giovanna M. Fernandez of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty in Coral Gables who secured their stunning penthouse, a move that seemed destined given Fernandez’s elite status as a Diamond Chairman’s Club member, Top 1%, and Luxury Collection Specialist at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty.
Since their February 2024 move, the transition has been remarkably smooth. David appreciates Brickell’s family-friendly atmosphere, where he finds peace knowing his wife and children are safe. “It’s more family-oriented here, a beautiful area where everything is within walking distance,” he notes.
Both David and Karina’s business ventures have flourished since the move. Karina oversees two thriving businesses in Washington state – Dress in Love, a chic clothing boutique in Seattle’s Westfield Southcenter Mall, and Botanica Beauty Studio, a medspa in Bellevue – all while balancing life as a mother of two. Despite the distance, she successfully manages both remotely from their new Miami home.
David’s entrepreneurial ambitions are also expanding. In January 2025, following his anticipated championship fight in Las Vegas, he plans to launch EZBachi Japanese Grill, a gourmet food truck in downtown Miami. A franchise of a Phoenix-based brand, EZBachi will serve high-end hibachi dishes such as lobster plates and filet mignon bowls. “I’m excited about the business opportunities here,” says David. “Miami is a booming market, and we see so much potential.”
Their shared Mexican heritage also enhances their connection to the city. “We love the strong Latino presence here,” David says. “But what’s even more incredible is the mix of cultures from around the world – it’s truly unique.”
Though they miss their West Coast family, the couple feels at home in Miami. Their children enjoy outdoor living, especially in the sun-drenched pool, and they’ve quickly integrated into the community, including at BOXR Gym, where David trains. “We’ve made wonderful friends here,” says Karina. “We’re really starting to settle in.”
David’s three-year-old son, Anthony, is already following in his father’s footsteps. With an Instagram following at @babyanthonybenavidez, the toddler loves to showcase his punch combinations after his father’s matches. “He’s been throwing punches since he was six months old,” David says proudly. Boxing runs deep in the family – David’s father, Jose Benavidez Sr., trained him and his brother, Jose Benavidez Jr. In fact, Jose Jr. made his acting debut in 202§, portraying Felix Chavez in Creed III, further solidifying the family’s prominence.
Should Benavidez secure victory in his upcoming fight against David Morrell Jr. in Las Vegas, he will become the light heavyweight world champion by next year. “Our dream is to continue building successful businesses,” David shares. For this power couple, Miami is not just a city – it’s the foundation for their next chapter of joy and growth.
