The Call for a Mega-Fight
Coach Barry Hunter, known for guiding the career of Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, has thrown down the gauntlet, proposing a catchweight fight between his protege and the legendary Japanese star, Naoya ‘Monster’ Inoue. Hunter suggests a middle ground, where Davis (30-0, 28 KOs) would move down in weight and Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) would move up, possibly to 130 pounds. The idea is tantalizing, bringing together two of the most devastating punchers in the sport, but it hinges on Inoue’s willingness to venture out of his comfort zone.
The Weight Conundrum
The proposed catchweight of 130 pounds is a compromise that seems fair on the surface. For Davis, moving down from 135 to 130 is a significant challenge, but it’s a manageable one. However, for Inoue, it means moving up from his current weight of 122 pounds, a difference of eight pounds. While this may not seem like much, it’s a substantial ask for a fighter who has been reluctant to move up to even 126 pounds. Hunter acknowledges that it’s easier for fighters to move up in weight rather than down, making the suggestion more palatable for Davis but a tough sell for Inoue.
The Bravery Factor
The question remains: does Inoue have the courage to step up? Throughout his career, Inoue has dominated the lower weight classes, often facing opponents who are far from the cream of the crop. Moving up to 130 pounds would mean confronting a new level of competition, one that could test his mettle like never before. Hunter, in his role as a boxing fan and coach, sees this as a challenge that would truly put Inoue’s skills to the test. "The reason he [Naoya] was named ‘The Monster’ for a reason," Hunter notes, highlighting Inoue’s explosive and skillful style.
A Barren Resume
One cannot ignore the fact that Inoue’s resume is somewhat barren when it comes to facing top-tier talent. He has made a fortune by winning against fighters in less competitive divisions, but his refusal to face the likes of Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez at 115 pounds speaks volumes. It raises questions about his willingness to take on the best. Hunter is keenly aware of this, and while he respects Inoue’s abilities, he also recognizes the need for a true test. "Tank is easily not a real 140 or 135-pounder. He’s a small guy. He’s just as explosive as hell, and makes him look bigger than what he is," Hunter explains, suggesting that Davis could be the perfect foil for Inoue.
The Alternatives
If the proposed fight with Inoue falls through, Hunter has other options for Davis. He expresses a fondness for a match against Keyshawn Davis, another formidable opponent, and mentions the possibility of a bout with Keyshawn at 135 pounds. Hunter’s confidence in Davis is evident, and he believes his fighter can handle whatever comes his way. "I love, based on skills," he says, indicating that Davis’s capabilities make him a formidable opponent in any matchup. Whether it’s Inoue, Keyshawn, or even the possibility of a fight with Vasiliy Lomachenko, Hunter is confident that Davis will rise to the occasion.
The Future of Boxing
The proposed mega-fight between Davis and Inoue is more than just a clash of titans; it’s a potential defining moment for both fighters and the sport of boxing. It would pit two of the most exciting and talented boxers of their generation against each other, creating a spectacle that boxing fans have been clamoring for. Hunter’s vision of a catchweight fight at 130 pounds is a bold and exciting proposal, but it will only come to fruition if both fighters are willing to take the leap. For now, the boxing world waits with bated breath, hoping that courage and the desire for greatness will prevail.
