Gervonta “Tank” Davis is set to face Lamont Roach Jr. on December 14, 2024, in a bout that has stirred mixed reactions among fans and analysts. The fight comes after Lamont Roach was granted special permission by the WBA to move up from super featherweight (130 lbs) to lightweight (135 lbs) and challenge Davis for his WBA lightweight title. This is Roach’s opportunity to become a two-division champion, having recently defended his 130-pound title
Why Is This Fight Happening?
This matchup materialized largely due to complications in securing other high-profile opponents for Davis. Gervonta had expressed interest in fighting top-tier names like Vasiliy Lomachenko and Shakur Stevenson, but those plans fell apart. Lomachenko took time away due to personal reasons related to his country’s conflict with Russia, and Stevenson shifted focus to other bouts before suffering an injury.
Many fans and boxing analysts are disappointed with the fight, criticizing it as a less-than-exciting matchup. Some see it as a mismatch, given Davis’ undefeated record of 30-0 (28 KOs) and his reputation as one of the sport’s most explosive knockout artists. Critics argue that Davis should be fighting top lightweights, such as William Zepeda or Keyshawn Davis, rather than pulling up a smaller fighter from another weight class.
Others, however, view this as a potential opportunity for Roach to pull off a major upset. Though Roach is the underdog, some believe his technical skills and durability could make the fight more competitive than expected. If Roach can survive Davis’ early power and capitalize on Davis’ tendency to start slow, there’s a chance for a shocking outcome.
Event Details
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Title on the Line: WBA Lightweight Championship (held by Gervonta Davis)
- Co-Main Event: David Benavidez vs. Jesse Hart (Light Heavyweight)
- Location & Venue: Yet to be confirmed
If Roach wins, he will have five days to choose whether to keep his new lightweight title or return to defend his super featherweight title. If he loses, he is mandated to defend his 130-pound title within 120 days.
This event is expected to be a pay-per-view attraction, though many fans have voiced concerns that this fight may not justify a PPV status due to the perceived mismatch.