The Rise of Keyshawn Davis
New York, New York – Keyshawn Davis (13-0, 9 KOs) made history on a thrilling night at the iconic Madison Square Garden. In a dominant performance, Davis secured the WBO lightweight championship by defeating Denys Berinchyk (19-1, 9 KOs) via a devastating body shot in the fourth round. The Ukrainian boxer was sent to the canvas, unable to rise from the full 10-count, marking a significant milestone in Davis’s burgeoning career. This victory not only showcased his exceptional skills but also solidified his position as a formidable force in the lightweight division.
The Battle of the Fourth Round
From the outset, Davis faced an unconventional opponent in Berinchyk, who employed a strategy of boxing in and out, often resorting to excessive clinching to avoid Davis’s powerful punches. Despite his initial struggles with Berinchyk’s pace and agility, Davis remained composed. "I never really had problems with awkward fighters," Davis reflected. "The only thing that was giving me trouble was how he kept jumping in and out. And he was a little faster than I expected. As the rounds went on, I got more comfortable in there, and in the fourth round, I did it to him."
Berinchyk’s reluctance to engage in sustained exchanges was evident, as he threw 121 punches but connected with only 14, a mere 11.6 percent of his attempts, according to Compubox. This stark contrast in efficiency and effectiveness highlighted Davis’s superior tactical understanding and physical prowess.
Joining the Elite Ranks
By defeating Berinchyk, Davis joined an elite group of boxers who have captured the lightweight championship in a remarkably short span of fights. This list includes legendary names such as Vasiliy Lomachenko (12 fights), Jimmy Britt (12 fights), and Oscar De La Hoya (14 fights). Davis achieved this feat in his 14th professional fight, with his bout against Nahir Albright being declared a no contest. This achievement underscores the rapid rise of Davis in the boxing world, cementing his status as a rising star with the potential to become a legend.
Looking Forward: The Next Big Fight
Following his triumph, Davis is eager to face the next big challenge. When asked about his next opponent, he was unequivocal. "I want anybody who has the balls to step in the ring and fight me. There are two 135-pound champions that I would love to fight. If they have the guts to step in the ring with ‘The Businessman,’ tell them to send me a contract, or I can send them one." While he didn’t mention names, it’s clear he is referring to IBF champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and WBA champion Gervonta Davis.
Vasiliy Lomachenko, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most skilled boxers of all time, has been rumored to retire. If he does, his IBF championship will become vacant, making it an easier match to secure, given that both fighters are under the same promotional company. On the other hand, a match against Gervonta Davis would require a cross-promotional agreement, a more complex but not impossible scenario in the current boxing landscape, especially with the influence of figures like Turki Alashikh.
A Friend and a Potential Rival
Notably, Davis has already ruled out a fight against WBC champion Shakur Stevenson, citing their close friendship. Stevenson, a former amateur rival and now a professional standout, is one opponent Davis is unwilling to face, adding an interesting dynamic to the lightweight division. This decision leaves the door open for other high-profile matchups, making the future of the lightweight division more exciting and unpredictable.
The Future of Lightweight Boxing
Keyshawn Davis’s victory has not only bolstered his personal career but also injected new energy into the lightweight division. With the potential of facing Lomachenko or Davis, the next few months could witness some of the most anticipated fights in recent boxing history. The lightweight division, already rich with talent, is poised to become even more competitive and thrilling, with Davis leading the charge as a new world champion. As the boxing world watches with bated breath, the stage is set for Davis to further establish himself as one of the elite fighters of his generation.
