Lamont Roach Contemplates Legal Action Against Gervonta Davis for Backing out of Rematch, Believes 'Tank' is Indifferent to Boxing

One of boxings most disappointing moments of 2025 was the absence of a follow-up between Lamont Roach and Gervonta Davis after their controversial first bout. In March in New York, underdog Roach held Davis to a draw, but a rematch never materialized as Davis opted to prepare for a now-canceled exhibition against Jake Paul.

Roach explained the situation on The Ariel Helwani Show, detailing the contractual and personal complications. "If he hadnt veered off, it would have happened," Roach stated. "He activated his rematch rights, which contractually should have prevented him from taking any other fights. But then he did exactly that he signed a fight with Jake Paul."

The original rematch was intended for June, shortly after the March fight, with both fighters signing the agreement. However, Davis requested more time, and the bout was rescheduled to August. Plans were further derailed when Davis ceased training in June and was arrested in July on domestic violence charges, making the rematch increasingly unlikely.

Roach emphasized that the contract meant Davis was obligated to face him before anyone else. Despite this, Davis pursued a November match with Paul, prompting Roach to consider legal action through arbitration. According to Roach, Premier Boxing Champions compensated him financially for the canceled fight. Roach is now aligned with PBC and is set to face Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz for the WBC interim super lightweight title on Saturday in San Antonio, Texas.

"We knew the Davis rematch wasnt going to happen," Roach admitted. "Thats why this fight with Pitbull is happening. My team ensured that no matter what, Id fight this year, regardless of what Davis did. Once the Jake Paul news came out, we just prepared for the next step."

Earlier, Davis had indicated that 2025 would be his final year in boxing, expressing disinterest in the sport. Roach believes Davis actions reflect his lack of commitment. "He told everyone he doesnt care about boxing, champions, or fans that hes only after the money. Looks like hes following through," Roach said.

The first Roach-Davis fight was contentious, particularly in the ninth round. Davis took a knee immediately after a left hand, claiming he needed to wipe grease from his braids, but no knockdown was recorded. The referee initially began a count but stopped unexpectedly. The New York State Athletic Commission later confirmed it should have been a knockdown but refused to overturn the result, citing uncertainty over the fights outcome if scored correctly. Roach called the decision a robbery in broad daylight but remains focused on moving forward.

Roach is now shifting attention to his upcoming bout with Cruz, moving up in weight and preparing to challenge for the WBC interim super lightweight title in his second consecutive pay-per-view headliner.

Author: Sophia Brooks