Here's why:
* Size and Weight: Bengal tigers are significantly larger and heavier than sloth bears. An adult male Bengal tiger can weigh up to 300 kg, while a sloth bear typically weighs around 140 kg.
* Musculature: Tigers have powerful muscles, especially in their forelimbs and jaws, which are designed for hunting large prey. While sloth bears have strong claws and a powerful bite, their overall musculature is not as formidable as a tiger's.
* Hunting Style: Tigers are apex predators with a highly developed hunting strategy. They are agile, fast, and possess incredible killing power. Sloth bears are opportunistic omnivores that rely more on their claws and teeth for foraging and defense rather than hunting large prey.
While a sloth bear's powerful claws and bite can inflict serious damage, it's unlikely to defeat a Bengal tiger in a fight. The tiger's superior size, strength, and hunting prowess would give it a clear advantage.