Trouble at the Top? Gervonta “Tank” Davis Fight Postponement Raises Questions About PBC Finances and Fighter Guarantees
Article By: TUFF Glove Boxing
The anticipated December 14 fight between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont Roach Jr. at Houston’s Toyota Center has sparked more intrigue and speculation than ever before. Originally promoted by PBC as one of its marquee events of the year, the fight now hangs in uncertainty amid troubling allegations, rumored financial instability and a lack of promised event dates within Premier Boxing Champions (PBC). Recent revelations suggest not only a possible venue issue but, more significantly, a potential inability by PBC to meet Davis’s guaranteed purse.
The $240 Million Question: Fact or Fiction?
One of the most tantalizing claims is the $240 million deal allegedly offered to Davis by Amazon Prime—a claim now mired in doubt. While this blockbuster contract was initially presented as a sign of PBC’s rising influence, insiders are questioning its legitimacy. If Tank was indeed offered such a substantial sum, why are purse guarantees reportedly difficult to fulfill? This contradiction has fueled skepticism about the structure and transparency of PBC’s business model, raising questions about whether fighters are being strung along with promises of massive payouts that never materialize.
Fighter Discontent: Rumors of Mismanagement and Inactivity
This latest hiccup is not an isolated incident; it follows a string of complaints from fighters and industry voices who allege that PBC’s top talent has been kept on the sidelines. The extended inactivity of PBC’s stars, including Errol Spence Jr., Jermall Charlo, and even Davis himself, has led some to wonder if the organization is grappling with more than just logistical delays. Fighters who were once promised “back-end” deals—where the majority of their earnings would come from event profits—now seem to be wondering if they’ve been “duped,” as “conversations in the barbershop” and online forums have long suggested for years. Allegations of mismanagement and misrepresentation of earnings have even led some fans and influencers to urge fighters to consider banding together and taking legal action against PBC for alleged breaches of contract
Is PBC’s Leader Missing in Action?
While the financial woes escalate, PBC founder Al Haymon’s absence from public view has only fueled speculation. Despite his longstanding role as the architect of PBC’s “fighter-first” philosophy, reports indicate he may be dealing with health issues. Yet, the lack of clear communication from PBC has cast doubt on the stability of the organization’s leadership. Haymon’s rumored absence has left PBC scrambling to maintain its footing amid a turbulent transition from Showtime to Amazon Prime. This, combined with PBC’s apparent inability to guarantee purses for fighters like Davis, has led many to question if Haymon’s vision for the promotion was ever as secure as it seemed
Influencers and the “Beehive” Effect
For years, a fiercely loyal segment of PBC’s online fanbase has aggressively defended the organization against criticism. Some liken this fanbase to Beyoncé’s “Beehive,” as they frequently challenge and harass media outlets, smaller YouTube channels, and any independent voices that question PBC’s dealings. These influencers, however, now find themselves facing difficult questions as cracks appear in PBC’s foundation. Allegations of financial instability, fighter inactivity, and unmet promises have started to overshadow PBC’s big-money contracts, like those of Canelo Alvarez, which reportedly offered substantial guarantees with no visible complications.
The postponement—or potential cancellation—of the Davis vs. Roach fight highlights a troubling trend in PBC’s promotional tactics. As the organization’s mainstays appear increasingly inactive, some question whether PBC will be able to maintain a competitive edge. And if promises of fighter-first treatment and major “back-end” deals have indeed faltered, more fighters may consider jumping ship to avoid being caught in PBC’s uncertain future. For now, the situation remains fluid, with fans and industry insiders closely watching whether PBC can navigate these unsteady waters or if, as some critics argue, it’s the beginning of the end for the once-promising promotion
In Gervonta Davis most recent tweet he revealed that “Everything is still a Go!” And prior to that tweeted: “I’m still fighting in Houston.” However, no date or venue was specified or confirmed. With the fight being only six weeks away and very little promotion having been done to market this event, many boxing fans remain hopeful but skeptical. And all eyes will be on PBC in the coming days.