Gervonta Davis accused of avoiding rematch of controversial fight which led to big inquest

Mar 13, 2026 - 15:00
Gervonta Davis accused of avoiding rematch of controversial fight which led to big inquest

Gervonta Davis has been accused of deliberately ignoring a sequel with Lamont Roach, a fight which ended in huge controversy.

In Davis’ last outing, he was held to a contentious draw with Lamont Roach last March, which many believed was unfortunate for the title challenger.

Gervonta Davis stumbling during his draw with Lamont Roach
Davis will not rematch Roach despite their bout ending in controversial fashion
GETTY

During the bout, Davis voluntarily took a knee in a moment which wasn’t scored a knockdown much to the frustration of Roach’s camp.

The bout was subject to investigation and it even saw a rule change that it would now be scored as such from now on in bouts.

A rematch was orderedbut Davis instead signed for a showdown with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, an event which was later cancelled due to his legal issues outside of the ring.

Now over a year on from his last outing, he is now in advanced talks over a comeback second meeting with former rival Isaac Cruz.

It will come as a surprise to many that he didn’t plan to settle his wrong with Roach, whom has on many occasions pleaded for redemption.

The former world champion’s father believes it is telling that Davis has turned his attentions back towards Cruz.

He said: “Davis already beat Pitbull [Cruz].

“If he’s going to fight, everybody wants to see the rematch [with Roach]. Nobody is calling for that fight. He already beat him.

“It was a good fight but there was no question on who won the fight. Tank won that fight.

“To fight him over us I don’t see the logic in that. We can’t get these guys back in the ring with us so that says a lot about my son.” 

Gervonta Davis punching Isaac Cruz during their clash
Davis will instead rematch Cruz, whom he beat in their own thrilling encounter
Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach – world titles this year?

For Davis it has been a turbulent period inside and outside of the ring.

And given he was subject to an arrest warrant for domestic violence allegations, he was stripped of his WBA lightweight title.

Davis is still considered the ‘champion in recess’, and does have the right to challenge for the belt, which could be on the line against Cruz.

Of course if he takes victory, a showdown with Roach will once again face louder growing calls again.

Particularly given his fellow countryman looks in line to challenge for a world title of his own.

Roach has been ordered to face William Zepeda for the WBC vacant lightweight title next, and a victory would give Davis more incentive to renew their rivalry.

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