The boxing world was left buzzing after the electrifying fight between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont Roach Jr., a match that ended in a controversial majority draw at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. While the fight was expected to be a showcase of skill and power, it instead sparked a heated debate over a disputed knockdown that Roach insists should have been counted in his favor. The outcome has led to calls for a rematch and raised questions about the state of officiating in boxing.

Lamont Roach Jr.: A Fighter on the Rise

At 29 years old, Lamont Roach Jr. has proven himself to be a formidable competitor in the boxing world. With a professional record of 25 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw before this fight, Roach has demonstrated technical skill, resilience, and unwavering determination.

Standing at 5’7″ with a 68-inch reach, Roach has carved out a reputation for being an intelligent, tactical boxer who can adapt to different styles in the ring. He has consistently showcased a well-balanced offense and defense, allowing him to compete against some of the best in the super featherweight and lightweight divisions.

Heading into the match against Gervonta Davis, Roach was seen as the underdog. However, he carried immense confidence, believing he had the skills to challenge the undefeated champion and make a statement to the world.

The Controversial Fight: Davis vs. Roach

The anticipation for this fight was at an all-time high. Gervonta Davis, widely regarded as one of the most dangerous punchers in boxing, entered the fight with a flawless 30-0 record, boasting an impressive knockout rate of over 90%. His reputation as a dominant force in the lightweight division made him the favorite to win.

However, Roach did not back down. From the opening rounds, he displayed impressive movement and sharp counterpunching, making it clear that he had come prepared. The fight was a battle of contrasting styles—Davis’s aggression and knockout power against Roach’s technical ability and precision punching.

The Ninth-Round Controversy

The most pivotal moment of the fight occurred in the ninth round, where Roach landed a clean jab that forced Davis to take a knee. According to the Unified Rules of Boxing, any time a fighter’s knee touches the canvas following a punch, it is considered a knockdown and should result in an automatic standing count by the referee.

However, referee Steve Willis did not count the knockdown. Instead, he allowed the fight to continue without interruption, an oversight that has since been widely criticized by fans, analysts, and boxing insiders.

Roach’s Reaction: “That Would Have Won Me the Fight”

After the fight, a visibly frustrated Lamont Roach Jr. did not hold back his emotions.

“I told you, I’m one of the best boxers in the world… They should have counted a knockdown… That would have won me the fight.”

Roach’s words reflect the sentiment of many who watched the fight unfold. Had the knockdown been counted, it could have shifted the judges’ final decision in his favor.

Scorecards & the Majority Draw Decision

The fight ended in a majority draw, with the judges scoring it as follows:

Judge 1: 114-114
Judge 2: 115-113 (Roach)
Judge 3: 114-114

With one judge scoring in Roach’s favor and the other two calling it even, the controversy surrounding the uncounted knockdown becomes even more significant.

Boxing Community’s Reaction & the Call for a Rematch

Shannon Sharpe Weighs In on the State of Boxing

Prominent sports analyst Shannon Sharpe was among those who expressed disappointment—not just about the missed knockdown but about the state of boxing itself.

Sharpe criticized the sport for fighters avoiding tough matchups in favor of protecting their undefeated records. He called for more elite boxers to face each other, arguing that the best way to revive interest in boxing is to encourage competitive, high-stakes fights.

“If these top guys don’t start fighting each other, boxing is going to lose its audience. We need fights like this, but we also need fair decisions!”

The WBA’s Decision: A Potential Rematch

Following the fight, the World Boxing Association (WBA) announced that it is strongly considering ordering an immediate rematch between Davis and Roach. WBA President Gilberto Mendoza stated that a vote would be held among the Championship Committee, and if Davis refuses the rematch, he may be stripped of his title.

This decision highlights how serious the controversy surrounding the fight has become. Fans and analysts alike want a definitive conclusion, and the rematch could provide just that.

Gervonta Davis: Undefeated, but Under Scrutiny

Gervonta Davis has built a career on his knockout power, speed, and aggressive fighting style. However, his career has also been marred by legal troubles and controversies, including a high-profile hit-and-run incident.

The draw with Roach marks the first time Davis has not won a fight, putting him in an unfamiliar position. While his record still remains technically undefeated, the debate surrounding the uncounted knockdown has left many questioning whether Davis truly deserved to retain his title.

What’s Next? The Potential Rematch

A rematch between Davis and Roach would be one of the most highly anticipated fights of the year. Here’s why:

For Lamont Roach Jr., it’s a chance to right the wrongs of the first fight and officially claim the title.
For Gervonta Davis, it’s an opportunity to silence the critics and prove he can decisively defeat Roach.
For boxing fans, it’s the chance to see a fair and conclusive ending to one of the most controversial fights of the year.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Boxing & Fair Officiating

The Davis vs. Roach fight has sparked a larger conversation about the need for better officiating in boxing. When crucial moments like the ninth-round knockdown are overlooked, it undermines the integrity of the sport.

Whether or not a rematch is ordered, one thing is certain—Lamont Roach Jr. has proven himself as a world-class boxer. His performance against Davis has elevated his status, and even without an official win, he has earned the respect of the boxing community.

As fans eagerly await the next chapter in this rivalry, one question remains: Will justice be served in the rematch? Only time will tell.

Stay tuned for updates on the WBA’s decision and the future of Davis vs. Roach II🥊🔥