Talk of a Jake Paul vs. Gervonta “Tank” Davis fight, despite Netflix confirming for November 14, is nothing short of ‘delusional.’
That’s the view of Ryan Garcia, who has blasted the announcement of his rivals. The 27-year-old lightweight contender immediately questioned the logic of Davis competing under the contracted weight, reportedly 195 pounds, for the crossover mega-event.
“I strongly doubt this happens, no way Gervonta accepted 195 pounds. Gervonta is already small naturally, and you really think he will decide to balloon up to 195 pounds?
“You’ve got to be delusional to think this is going to happen,” stated Garcia.
‘Integrity is getting ruined’
Garcia didn’t hold back on what he believes Paul is doing to boxing’s landscape, insisting the ‘new blueprint’ is damaging the sport’s credibility.
“This just proves that the new blueprint is getting popular. Be a decent fighter, pick fights to win that give you an advantage, and continue to rack in money.
“Integrity of the sport is getting ruined every day.”
The Californian urged young professionals not to be swayed by the circus-like nature of such events.
“If you are an up-and-coming fighter, I’d just focus on strictly building your name.”
Paul vs Davis: the Netflix gamble
With Paul vs. Davis confirmed for November 14, Netflix takes another bold step into novelty boxing, following the success of Paul’s bout with Mike Tyson earlier this year.
However, Garcia is not alone in doubting the legitimacy of the weight agreement or the competitive value of the fight.
For Garcia, confirmation or not, the spectacle doesn’t stack up against the sport’s traditions.
It’s a fight neither Paul nor Davis can take any credit for. If Paul wins, he’s the bigger guy and is supposed to use his advantages to secure the victory. If Davis comes out on top, he’s the professional boxer and current world champion, so he’s expected to get the win.
And with the contest being an exhibition, the likelihood of a knockout gets diminished by the rules, with the entire main event coming under the ‘Who Cares’ category.
Other than the gimmick of a 200-pounder facing a lightweight, it’s hard to see why bosses at Netflix wanted the fight.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.