In a match that left many in the boxing community scratching their heads, WBA lightweight champion Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis faced Lamont Roach, resulting in a perplexing twelve-round majority draw. The bout, held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, raised eyebrows not only for its outcome but also for the implications it has on Davis’s career trajectory. With a record now standing at 30-0-1 with an impressive 28 KOs, Davis’s focus appears to be shifting away from a potential rematch with Roach, rather toward more lucrative bouts that could reshape his legacy.
During the post-fight press conference, Davis was clear in his dismissal of an immediate rematch with Roach, stating, “It probably won’t be next.” This statement sparked conversation about the integrity of boxing’s officiating, with many questioning whether a review of the referee’s missed call on a ninth-round knockdown is warranted. Critics argue that the outcome does a disservice to both fighters, given the stakes involved. The question arises: should the WBA intervene and force a rematch, or should Davis pivot toward other opportunities despite this controversy?
Future Plans: A Shift in Focus
Davis indicated that his next fight was already in the pipeline, and it appears that he may be setting his sights on a showdown with social media influencer and professional boxer Jake Paul. It’s noteworthy that Paul, also known for his fighting exploits in the cruiserweight division, was seen visiting Davis’s locker room prior to the fight against Roach. This connection hints at a burgeoning rivalry that could culminate in a major draw for both fighters, despite the glaring disparities in weight and experience.
The numerical difference between the two fighters is staggering. Jake Paul’s weight has fluctuated significantly, reportedly tipping the scales at around 227 pounds during his last bout against Mike Tyson. In contrast, for Davis to compete at a higher weight class—say around 140 pounds—would still place them substantially apart in terms of size. Critics will likely question the fairness of such a matchup, as boxing often hinges on weight classes to ensure competitive balance.
Money vs. Titles: A Decision Ahead for Davis
Davis’s financial aspirations seem to resonate louder than his championship pursuits at this juncture in his career. With the allure of a major payday against Paul shining brightly, it begs the question of whether he would willingly vacate his 135-pound title to chase more glamorous bouts. Observers speculate he may choose to let the WBA strip him of his title rather than face Roach in a rematch, especially if a fight against Paul would promise more revenue.
The boxing world now stands at a crossroads with Gervonta Davis. As he leans into a fight with Paul, the ongoing debate about whether to pursue a rematch with Roach remains poignant. Will he prioritize legacy-building through championship defenses, or will the draw serve as a pivotal moment leading him into increasingly lucrative, albeit unconventional, fights? The coming months will certainly shed light on his decisions and their ramifications in the sport of boxing.