WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis is plotting his comeback after his lackluster performance against WBA super featherweight champion Lamont Roach Jr. earlier this month. Despite being the heavy favorite going into the fight in New York, ‘Tank’ failed to not only defeat ‘The Reaper’ but also convince everyone that he was close to it.
The fight itself ended in a majority decision draw, saving him from getting his record completely tarnished by a red notch. However, as far as a majority of the fan base is concerned, including Terence Crawford, Davis lost the fight, especially because of what happened in the ninth round. The Baltimore native took a surprising knee in the middle of the action.
However, it wasn’t because he was hurt. While this didn’t go against any of the boxing rules, referee Steve Willis made the mistake of letting the incident go unpunished. Regardless, weeks after the fight, Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix has confirmed that a rematch between the rivals is in the works, and could be set for June this year. 
“A Tank-Roach rematch could happen as early as June 21st in Las Vegas, sources told @SInow,” Mannix wrote on X. “Both sides now committed to running it back.” However, things are a little different this time around. Davis doesn’t have the overwhelming backing for a win, which he did the last time around. Undefeated prospect Julian Gonzalez shared his prediction for the fight, seemingly ruining Davis’ plans to win the fight easily.
“They’re both going to come ready again,” Gonzalez told YSM Sports Media. “The first one was a tough one too. I think I had Lamont Roach, I’m not going to lie. But… I wasn’t mad at the draw. I’m rock with Lamont though, it’s hard. Lamont surprised me a lot, so I’m with Lamont.” Meanwhile, Lamont Roach Jr. has shared his verdict on Davis’ power.
Lamont Roach Jr. didn’t shy away from addressing Gervonta Davis’ punching power, which he is known for, following their controversial majority draw on March 1. During his March 6 appearance on Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco, Roach acknowledged Davis’ knockout reputation but remained unfazed.
“I see why he knocks people out,” Roach admitted. “I’m not gonna say the power is overrated, but I’ve been in there with guys who can punch, so it was nothing new to me.” Roach credited his defense and durability for neutralizing Davis’ power. “The defense is there, and the confidence was through the roof. And I got a chin. We can keep a spade a spade,” he added.
Having said that, it appears what was overwhelming support for Gervonta Davis before March 1, has turned into doubts and even support for Lamont Roach Jr. But what about you? Who do you think will win in the rematch?
