The Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach Controversy

Inside Fighting

March 4, 2025

What Happened?

In the world of boxing, controversy is never too far behind, and the recent matchup between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont Roach Jr. has been no exception. On March 4, 2025, the highly anticipated bout ended in a majority draw, but what should have been a straightforward result has instead sparked a heated debate due to a questionable technical issue during the fight. The controversy centers around a crucial moment in the ninth round, and the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) is now investigating the incident, which could potentially lead to a change in the official result.

An Unusual Moment in Round Nine

The fight was intense, with both fighters showcasing their skills in front of a packed arena. Davis, the undefeated former champion known for his knockout power, was expected to dominate Roach, who entered the ring as an underdog. However, what followed would leave both fans and analysts scratching their heads.

The controversy erupted in the ninth round when Davis seemingly took a knee after receiving a punch from Roach. This move, often associated with a fighter who needs a brief moment to recover, was not officially counted as a knockdown by the referee. While taking a knee is a common tactic for fighters to buy time, it is a key moment that must be clearly recognized by the officials in order to maintain the integrity of the fight. In this case, the referee did not call it as such, and the round continued without any additional penalties or points taken from Davis.

Referee’s Failure to Recognize the Knockdown

The moment raised immediate questions from fans and commentators alike. The decision to not call a knockdown has led to concerns about potential favoritism or mistakes during the officiating, which, if not addressed, could undermine the credibility of the fight’s outcome. Davis, while appearing somewhat shaken after the punch, continued to fight, but the lack of a knockdown call has been at the heart of the controversy.

As a result, the NYSAC has launched an investigation into the issue. According to reports, the commission is scrutinizing the technical malfunction, or more accurately, the lack of recognition of the knee, to determine if it impacted the fight’s fairness and the final decision. The main question being asked is whether the fight’s outcome—declared a majority draw—should stand, or if the results need to be revisited and possibly overturned. This situation has become a point of contention, as many fans believe that the referee’s failure to call the knockdown may have unfairly favored Davis, even though Roach was fighting well and had delivered significant punches.

Calls for a Rematch

Given the controversy surrounding the decision, there have been calls from fans, analysts, and even some boxing insiders for a rematch between Davis and Roach. They argue that the uncertainty surrounding the fight’s outcome, especially with the potential mishandling of the knockdown, has cast a shadow over the result. Many believe that a rematch would provide a fairer and clearer conclusion to what was a thrilling but tainted contest.

NYSAC’s Investigation and Potential Impact on the Sport

Beyond the immediate controversy, this incident has reignited discussions about the importance of refereeing and the consistency of officiating in boxing. With high stakes and large audiences watching, one mistake in officiating can significantly affect a fighter’s reputation and the sport’s credibility. This is not the first time a technical issue or an unclear call has influenced the outcome of a boxing match, but it is a stark reminder of how critical it is for officials to make accurate and timely decisions in the ring.

The NYSAC’s investigation is still ongoing, and boxing fans around the world are eagerly awaiting their verdict. Will the controversial decision be overturned, or will the draw stand as is? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this fight will be remembered for more than just the action in the ring—it will be remembered for the technical controversy that followed.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach?

As the investigation continues, the futures of both Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach hang in the balance. Davis, who has long been considered one of the top names in boxing, could face scrutiny if the investigation leads to a change in the outcome. Meanwhile, Roach, who fought valiantly throughout the contest, may have his own opportunities if the commission rules in his favor or if a rematch is scheduled. Whatever the decision, both fighters remain pivotal to the future of the sport and could use this controversy to fuel their next steps.

The Bigger Picture: Accountability in Boxing

The Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach Jr. bout will likely spark ongoing discussions about the need for better regulation and oversight in the sport, as well as how critical it is to ensure that every detail of a fight is handled with the utmost precision. In a sport as high-stakes as boxing, controversies like this are more than just a passing incident—they are a reminder of the ongoing need for accountability and transparency in officiating. The fight may have ended in a majority draw, but the real question is whether it will ultimately be remembered as a historic moment for the sport’s continued evolution.

As the NYSAC investigation unfolds, all eyes will remain on the outcome—both for its immediate impact and for its long-term implications on the sport of boxing.