With fresh revelations emerging, the Gervonta Davis–Lamont Roach Jr. fight seems to be unraveling like Pandora’s box. Fans have already had plenty to digest. ‘Tank’s’ controversial ninth-round knee, his bizarre explanation, referee Steve Willis‘ questionable conduct, and the highly disputed match decision. As if that wasn’t enough, yet another controversy seems to have surfaced.
On March 1, Davis and Roach Jr. faced off at the Barclays Center. Looking back, this isn’t a fight Davis will take much pride in. With the state athletic commission backing the majority draw decision, the unresolved matter appears to be leading toward a rematch, tentatively set for June. But the drama is far from over. There’s a chance the latest issue may take fans back to the infamous ‘Bite Fight,’ when Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield fought a rematch.
Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach Jr.: Is history repeating itself?
Intrigue deepened when Lamont Roach Jr., while reviewing the fight, made a startling observation. In the particular footage, the two fighters are seen locked in a clinch. With his back against the ropes, Davis grabs Roach Jr.’s neck with his left hand. However, due to the way his glove was positioned, it’s difficult to tell what Davis is doing at that exact moment.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 01: Gervonta Davis punches Lamont Roach Jr. during their bout for Davis’ WBA lightweight title at Barclays Center on March 01, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Roach Jr. later remarked, “That’s when he tried to bite me.” He added further, “I ain’t even notice that until somebody said something.” To set the record straight, in the footage, Davis’ head movement does suggest a possible biting motion toward Roach Jr.’s ear. However, without clear evidence, it remains a claim rather than a certainty.
Perhaps it’s merely speculation Roach Jr. stumbled upon. The fight has already stirred enough controversy, and adding more fuel to the fire may not be necessary. Already there’s a buzz going around, whether Davis, as a superstar, received preferential treatment in the bout.
Let the rematch answer all lingering questions
One of the biggest talking points remains the moment Davis took a voluntary knee in the ninth round. It was an unusual and shocking move. Then instead of issuing the standard knockdown count, referee Steve Willis allowed him to recover unpunished. Post-fight, ‘Tank’ explained his actions, claiming that a hair product had dripped into his eyes, forcing him to seek quick assistance from his corner.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 01: Gervonta Davis takes a knee in the middle of round nine due to the grease in his braids dripped into his eyes against Lamont Roach Jr. during their bout for Davis’ WBA lightweight title at Barclays Center on March 01, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Even if true, such a situation should have warranted disciplinary action. Especially considering that at that moment, Roach Jr. appeared to be gaining the upper hand. Many believe that had the knockdown been officially recorded, Roach Jr. would have won the fight. Instead, the majority draw saved Davis from the embarrassment of a loss, and he retained his belts in the process.
Perhaps it’s time to put the controversies aside and let the rematch settle everything. Can ‘Tank,’ often accused of avoiding top-tier opponents, prove himself against a formidable Lamont Roach Jr.? On the other hand, a victory for Roach Jr. wouldn’t just be a statement. It would fulfill his dream of becoming a two-division world champion.
Have you seen the clip? What are your thoughts on the latest controversy?
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