Tank Davis Eyeing Future Matchup with Haney
Gervonta "Tank" Davis has set his sights on a potential fight with Devin Haney, a proposition that remains open even if Davis doesn’t come out on top in his highly anticipated rematch with Ryan Garcia. This stance reflects Davis’s confidence and his desire to face formidable challenges, regardless of the immediate outcome of his current engagements. Haney, the undefeated two-division world champion with a pristine record of 31-0 and 15 knockouts, is viewed by Davis as a worthy opponent who needs to "redeem" himself first. Notably, Haney’s redemption path includes a tuneup fight against Jose Ramirez on May 2nd, followed by his second bout with Ryan Garcia. While Davis might not be fully aware of Haney’s upcoming fight with Ramirez, his interest in a Haney matchup is clear. Even if Haney were to lose both of these fights, Davis suggests that a competitive showing could still make the fight feasible and exciting.
The Weight Conundrum
A significant obstacle in this potential matchup is the weight issue. Haney is gearing up to campaign in the 147-pound weight class, which could complicate any future fight with Davis. Asking Haney to drop back to 140 pounds for a fight with Davis is a tall order, and even if he does make the weight, the likelihood of rehydrating to a much higher weight post-fight is high. This would mean that Davis would still be at a significant size disadvantage. Unlike Ryan Garcia, who foolishly agreed to a 10-pound rehydration clause, Haney would likely refuse such a condition. The weight class disparity and the physical toll of making weight are real concerns that need to be addressed if this fight is to materialize.
The Landscape of 135 Pounds
Davis’s openness to a fight with Haney also stems from the dwindling options in the 135-pound division. Shakur Stevenson, once a formidable opponent, has taken a different route since his exposure by Edwin De Los Santos in 2023. Stevenson is now taking on what can be described as "easy fights" against weaker opponents, a trend orchestrated by his promoter, Eddie Hearn, to ensure Stevenson doesn’t incur any losses and remains a marketable commodity. This approach has left Davis feeling that Stevenson is not a genuine contender and is merely seeking a payday. Additionally, Keyshawn Davis has been labeled a "weight bully" by some, suggesting that his size and strength make him more suitable for the middleweight division rather than 135 pounds. These factors contribute to Davis’s willingness to explore other options, such as a fight with Haney, who remains a legitimate threat in the lighter weight classes.
Davis’s Perspective on Haney
In an interview with Bubba Dub, Davis expressed his thoughts on a potential fight with Haney, stating, “I would definitely be open to fighting Devin for sure, but he’s got to redeem himself. If he looks good in his next fight, or if the fight don’t go good, or even if he looks good against Ryan too and he don’t get the win, I feel it would still be a good fight to have.” Davis’s comments highlight his admiration for Haney’s skill and the long-standing rivalry between them, which has been present since their younger days in the sport. The buildup of this rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to the potential matchup, making it a fight that both fans and pundits would be eager to see.
Haney’s Reaction and Motivation
Devin Haney and his father, Bill Haney, have long been advocating for a fight with Gervonta Davis. The younger Haney’s undefeated record and reputation as a skilled technician make him a natural fit for Davis’s career trajectory. Hearing Davis express openness to the fight must be a welcome development for the Haney camp. The father-son team has been vocal about their desire to face Davis, viewing it as a crucial step in solidifying Haney’s status as one of the elite fighters in the lightweight division. The fight with Jose Ramirez and the rematch against Ryan Garcia serve as important stepping stones for Haney to prove his mettle and perhaps set the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with Davis.
Looking Ahead
The potential Davis-Haney matchup hinges on several factors, including Haney’s performance in his upcoming fights and the willingness of both camps to navigate the weight class challenges. If Haney can convincingly demonstrate his skills and competitiveness, even in the face of potential losses, the fight could become a reality. For Davis, the fight represents an opportunity to engage with a genuine contender and continue his ascent in the boxing world. Despite the obstacles, the mutual interest and the historic rivalry between the two fighters make this a matchup worth watching as the boxing landscape continues to evolve.
