This past Saturday at the Barclays Center in New York, the boxing world witnessed a spectacle that has since stirred a whirlwind of discussions and debates. Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach clashed in a match that concluded with a majority decision draw. However, the controversy centers not on the fighters’ skills but on a pivotal moment in the ninth round that could have shifted the title.
The Incident That Sparked Debate
During the ninth round, Gervonta Davis unexpectedly took a knee and retreated to his corner without being struck by Roach. This action led to significant uproar as referee Steve Willis chose not to count this as a knockdown. The implications were significant: without the knockdown, the scores read 115-113 for Davis and 114-114 twice. Had Roach been awarded a 10-8 round for what many believed should have been a knockdown, he might have left the ring as the new WBA lightweight champion.
WBA’s Stand on the Matter
In response to widespread criticism and calls of one of the “worst calls” seen in the sport, the World Boxing Association (WBA) has stepped forward to clarify and defend the referee’s decision. According to the official statement from the WBA, they found Willis’ actions neither “unreasonable” nor “unjustifiable.” The referee had determined that Davis had not been struck before taking a knee, thus ruling out the need for a knockdown call.
The statement further emphasized that, under boxing regulations, judges are required to adhere to the referee’s decisions regarding knockdowns and cannot override them. The WBA countered the accusations of favoritism towards Davis by highlighting the referee’s focus on the fighter’s safety, citing Davis’s apparent eye injury as a concern that might have prompted his decision to take a knee.
Contrasting Views Within the WBA
While the WBA’s official stance supports the referee’s decision, contrasting opinions have emerged within the organization itself. WBA President Gilberto Mendoza acknowledged the controversial nature of the fight, suggesting that the circumstances warrant a rematch. This internal disparity adds another layer to the ongoing debate and highlights the complexities of officiating in high-stakes boxing matches.
The aftermath of the Davis vs. Roach fight leaves the boxing community divided. While some accept the WBA’s justification in prioritizing a fighter’s safety, others remain adamant that justice was not served on that eventful night. With the president of the WBA hinting at a rematch, it seems this contentious chapter in lightweight boxing is far from over. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely, hoping for a conclusive showdown that leaves no room for doubt or debate.