Coach Bernie Tha Boxer’s Optimistic Vision for Keyshawn Davis
Coach Bernie Tha Boxer believes that Keyshawn Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) will catapult to another level of stardom if he defeats WBO lightweight champion Denys Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) on Friday night at Madison Square Garden Theater in New York City. Bernie is confident that this victory will elevate Keyshawn to an unprecedented status in the boxing world, surpassing the need for a unification fight with the more prominent Gervonta Davis. Despite Keyshawn’s consistent mentions of Gervonta throughout the promotion of his fight against Berinchyk, Bernie emphasizes that Keyshawn’s true path to stardom might lie elsewhere.
The Business of Boxing: Chasing Paydays and Risk Management
Bernie asserts that Keyshawn has already established himself as "top of the class" at 135 pounds, given his impressive performances since turning professional four years ago. However, Bernie thinks it’s unwise for Keyshawn to risk his star power by fighting Andy Cruz, a fighter who has faced him multiple times in the amateurs. According to Bernie, Keyshawn’s career is driven by business acumen, and he is selective about the risks he takes. This approach has led him to prioritize fights that promise financial gain over those that might build a more storied legacy. Bernie’s perspective suggests that Keyshawn’s career is a strategic blend of performance and financial prudence, ensuring that each step forward is both lucrative and sustainable.
The Weight Cut Dilemma: Navigating the Light and Heavy Scales
Despite Bernie’s optimism, the physical toll of making weight at 135 pounds is noticeable. Keyshawn’s struggle to meet the lightweight limit, particularly at 25 years old, raises concerns about his long-term viability in the division. His body’s dramatic changes post-weight cut indicate that he might be better suited for the light welterweight (140 pounds) or even welterweight (147 pounds) divisions. Bernie acknowledges this challenge but remains focused on Keyshawn’s immediate goals. If Keyshawn wins the WBO lightweight title, his next steps could indeed involve a move up in weight, where he might find more suitable and lucrative opponents.
The Path to True Stardom: Beyond the WBO Title
Even if Keyshawn captures the WBO lightweight belt, his journey to true stardom is not guaranteed. Bernie envisions a scenario where Keyshawn makes a few title defenses against lesser-known opposition before potentially moving up in weight. This path, while pragmatic, may not significantly boost his popularity or legacy. Fans and critics alike are likely to question the value of a title defense against fighters who lack the public appeal and boxing pedigree of top names like Gervonta Davis, Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, and Vasily Lomachenko. Bernie’s optimism is tempered by the reality that Keyshawn’s choices will ultimately determine his place in the boxing pantheon.
The Shadow of Andy Cruz: Unresolved Rivalry and Controversy
The persistent shadow of Andy Cruz looms over Keyshawn’s career. Cruz, who has beaten Keyshawn four times in the amateurs, remains a significant figure in the discussion surrounding Keyshawn’s legacy. Bernie’s dismissive comments about Cruz’s identity being tied to Keyshawn highlight the tension between the two fighters. Fans and boxing purists are skeptical of Keyshawn’s avoidance of Cruz, seeing it as a strategic maneuver to avoid a potentially challenging and less financially rewarding fight. Bernie’s defense of Keyshawn’s career choices underscores the complex dynamics of boxing, where personal and professional interests often intersect.
The Future Horizon: A Galaxy of Possibilities
Ultimately, Bernie Tha Boxer’s vision for Keyshawn Davis is one of boundless potential. If Keyshawn secures the WBO lightweight title, he will have achieved a significant milestone. However, the path forward is fraught with decisions that will shape his career. Moving up in weight, pursuing lucrative paydays, and navigating the complex world of boxing promotions will be key to Keyshawn’s continued rise. Whether he achieves his full potential and becomes a true star in the boxing galaxy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Friday night’s fight against Denys Berinchyk is a crucial step on that journey.
