Gervonta “Tank” Davis, one of boxing’s brightest stars, continues to captivate fans with his explosive performances and unrelenting pursuit of greatness in the lightweight and super lightweight divisions. Known for his devastating knockout power, slick defense, and charismatic persona, Davis has solidified his place as a top-tier fighter.
As of May 18, 2025, the boxing world is buzzing with speculation about his next fight, following his recent bouts and the swirling rumors about potential opponents. This article delves into the latest updates on Gervonta Davis’s next fight, addressing fan queries, exploring possible matchups, and providing a comprehensive look at what lies ahead for the Baltimore native.
Who Is Gervonta Davis?
Before diving into the details of his next fight, it’s worth recapping who Gervonta Davis is and why his fights generate such intense interest. Born on November 7, 1994, in Baltimore, Maryland, Davis rose from humble beginnings to become a three-division world champion. Trained under the guidance of Calvin Ford and promoted early in his career by Floyd Mayweather Jr., Davis has a professional record of 30-0, with 28 knockouts, showcasing his dominance in the ring.
Davis currently holds the WBA lightweight title and has previously held titles in the super featherweight and super lightweight divisions. His ability to deliver highlight-reel knockouts, combined with his brash personality, has made him a fan favorite and a polarizing figure in boxing. Fans are eager to know who he’ll face next, as each fight brings him closer to cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Recent Fights and Context
To understand the anticipation surrounding Davis’s next fight, let’s review his recent activity. In December 2024, Davis faced Lamont Roach Jr. in a highly publicized lightweight title defense. The fight, which took place in Washington, D.C., was a homecoming of sorts for Davis, who hails from nearby Baltimore. Despite Roach’s resilience and technical skill, Davis secured a unanimous decision victory, showcasing his ability to outbox a determined opponent while maintaining his knockout threat.
This win followed Davis’s June 2024 knockout victory over Frank Martin, where he defended his WBA lightweight title with a spectacular eighth-round KO. These performances have kept Davis in the spotlight, but they’ve also sparked debates about who he should fight next to prove his greatness. Fans and analysts alike are clamoring for a marquee matchup against top contenders in the lightweight or super lightweight divisions.
The Lamont Roach Jr. Rematch Rumors
One of the most discussed topics in recent weeks is the possibility of a rematch between Davis and Lamont Roach Jr. According to posts on X and reports from sources like Ring Magazine, a rematch was initially scheduled for August 16, 2025, in Las Vegas. However, conflicting reports have emerged, with some sources, including a post on X from May 8, 2025, claiming the fight was canceled. The reasons for the cancellation remain unclear, with speculation ranging from promotional disputes to Davis seeking a bigger name for his next bout.
The potential rematch stems from Roach’s competitive showing in their first encounter. While Davis won convincingly, Roach’s durability and willingness to engage made fans wonder if a second fight could produce a different outcome. However, the cancellation rumors have shifted attention to other potential opponents, as Davis appears focused on securing a high-profile fight to elevate his legacy.
Potential Opponents for Gervonta Davis’s Next Fight
The question on everyone’s mind is: who will Gervonta Davis fight next? Several names have surfaced in recent discussions, each bringing unique intrigue and stakes to the table. Below, we explore the most prominent candidates based on the latest information available online.
Naoya Inoue: The Dream Matchup
One of the most exciting possibilities is a clash with Naoya “Monster” Inoue, the undisputed super bantamweight champion and pound-for-pound great. A March 2, 2025, article from Sporting News highlighted Inoue as a potential opponent for Davis following his fight with Roach. This matchup would be a blockbuster, pitting two of boxing’s most devastating punchers against each other.
However, significant hurdles exist. Inoue competes at 122 pounds, while Davis typically fights at 135 or 140 pounds. A catchweight would likely be necessary, and negotiations could be complicated by promotional differences (Davis is aligned with Premier Boxing Champions, while Inoue fights under Top Rank). Despite these challenges, the allure of a Davis-Inoue fight has fans salivating, as it would test both fighters’ skills and marketability on a global stage.
Shakur Stevenson: The Lightweight Showdown
Another highly anticipated matchup is against Shakur Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion. Stevenson has been vocal about wanting to fight Davis, calling it “the biggest fight in the sport of boxing” during a May 7, 2025, appearance on The Breakfast Club. Posts on X from the same day reflect Stevenson’s confidence, with claims that he could “hurt” Davis in the ring.
This fight would unify portions of the lightweight division and settle the debate over who is the best at 135 pounds. Stevenson’s slick boxing style and defensive mastery would contrast sharply with Davis’s aggressive, power-punching approach. However, promotional issues (Stevenson is with Top Rank) and personal tensions between the two fighters could complicate negotiations. Fans are hopeful that this mega-fight can materialize in 2025.
Devin Haney: A Long-Awaited Clash
Devin Haney, the former undisputed lightweight champion, is another name frequently mentioned. A 2023 article from Sporting News suggested that Haney, fresh off his victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko, would be an ideal opponent for Davis after his knockout of Ryan Garcia. While Haney has since moved to the super lightweight division, a return to 135 pounds or a catchweight bout could make this fight feasible.
Haney’s technical prowess and durability would test Davis’s ability to break down elite-level opponents. The bad blood between the two, fueled by social media exchanges, adds an extra layer of intrigue. A Davis-Haney fight would be a massive draw, especially given Haney’s fanbase and Davis’s star power.
Jake Paul: The Exhibition Buzz
An unexpected name in the conversation is Jake Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer. A May 15, 2025, post on X from @IfnBoxing reported that Paul revealed ongoing talks for an exhibition fight with Davis. While this matchup is unlikely to be a competitive boxing match, it would generate significant media attention due to Paul’s massive online following and Davis’s mainstream appeal.
Critics argue that this would be a step backward for Davis, who is focused on legacy-defining fights. However, the financial incentive of an exhibition could be tempting, especially if it’s structured as a low-risk, high-reward event. Fans have mixed feelings, with some dismissing the idea as a publicity stunt and others intrigued by the crossover potential.
Challenges and Controversies
Davis’s career hasn’t been without challenges. His association with Mayweather Promotions, as noted in a 2022 Bad Left Hook article, has been a point of contention, with some arguing it limited his ability to secure big fights earlier in his career. Additionally, Davis has faced legal issues, including a 2023 incident that briefly threatened his career. These off-ring controversies add complexity to his public image, with fans debating whether he’s fully capitalizing on his potential.
The lightweight division’s depth also presents a challenge. With stars like Stevenson, Haney, and Vasiliy Lomachenko, Davis must face top-tier competition to silence critics who argue he’s avoided the best. The cancellation of the Roach rematch, if true, could fuel perceptions that Davis is dodging tougher opponents, though no evidence supports this claim.
Fan Reactions and Sentiment
The sentiment on X and YouTube reflects a mix of excitement and frustration. Fans are thrilled at the prospect of Davis facing Stevenson or Inoue but are skeptical about the Jake Paul rumors. Comments on YouTube videos about Davis’s fights often highlight his knockout power, with one user stating, “Tank’s left hand is a cheat code!” However, others express disappointment over the lack of a confirmed opponent, with a common refrain being, “Stop ducking Shakur!”
FAQs
What was the outcome of their first fight?
In their initial encounter on March 1, 2025, Davis and Roach fought to a majority draw. One judge scored it 115–113 in favor of Davis, while the other two had it 114–114. The fight was marked by controversy, particularly a moment in the ninth round where Davis took a knee after a jab from Roach, which many believed should have been ruled a knockdown .
Why was the first fight controversial?
The controversy stemmed from a moment in the ninth round when Davis took a knee after a jab from Roach. Many observers, including boxing star Terence Crawford, felt that the knee should have been ruled a knockdown, which would have been the first of Davis’ career .
Are there any future plans for Davis after this fight?
Looking ahead, Davis has expressed interest in a potential exhibition match against Jake Paul. Negotiations for this bout are reportedly in progress, with a possible fight date in November 2025, contingent on Paul’s performance in his upcoming bout against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. A win over Chavez Jr. could pave the way for a Davis-Paul showdown .
What are experts saying about Gervonta Davis’ chances in the next fight?
Analysts praise Davis’ speed, power, and technical skill but also point out potential challenges depending on the opponent’s style. Pre-fight predictions and breakdowns are commonly found on sports shows, YouTube boxing channels, and betting sites.
In Summary
Gervonta Davis’s next fight is one of the most anticipated events in boxing, with fans eagerly awaiting confirmation of his opponent and date. Whether he faces Shakur Stevenson, Devin Haney, Naoya Inoue, or even engages in an exhibition with Jake Paul, the boxing world is watching closely. Davis’s combination of skill, power, and charisma ensures that his next bout will be a spectacle, regardless of the opponent. As the lightweight division continues to heat up, 2025 could be a defining year for “Tank” as he seeks to cement his legacy.
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