Is Keyshawn Davis The Next ‘Sugar Ray Leonard’?

Bob Arum has made a bold statement about Keyshawn Davis, calling the unbeaten WBO Lightweight Champion “this generation’s Sugar Ray Leonard.”

Davis is set to defend his title next against Edwin De Los Santos as he continues his rapid rise through the lightweight ranks. The 13-0 fighter earned the belt with a knockout win over Denys Berinchyk. Keyshawn has already fought four times since the start of 2024—proving himself as one of boxing’s most active champions. Keyshawn has been linked to several high-profile future bouts, including a fight with Lamont Roach Jr.

Meanwhile, Leonard is considered one of the greatest boxers in history. As a five-division world champion, Leonard captured titles from welterweight to light heavyweight, cementing his legacy. He was also the first fighter in the sport to earn over $100 million. While that is a lot to live up to, Arum expects Keyshawn to fulfil his potential. 

Arum On Keyshawn

“I think it’s a really good fight. The kid’s gonna keep getting tested. But, you know, in my estimation Keyshawn Davis is this generation’s Sugar Ray Leonard. He’s that good. And he fights the same type of style. In other words, he’s very, very quick, has very good defense, but also is an offensive fighter. You know, I’ve always been very high on Keyshawn. And this is another test for him.

“He realizes that not only is boxing important, it’s entertainmen. And so, he’s become a much more entertaining fighter. He’s much more aggressive and he uses his defensive skills. But the offensive skills are what people love and what he uses to take out his opponents,” Arum said 

Keyshawn’s Future

For Keyshawn to reach those levels, he will have to win titles in multiple weight divisions. He has spoken previously about wanting to fight at 140 pounds. There is the opportunity to face off against big names in that division, such as Teofimo Lopez. The Takeover holds the WBO Junior Welterweight Title. There are also other big fights available, such as against George Kambosos Jr., the former unified lightweight champion.

Equally, there is the IBF Junior Welterweight Champion Richardson Hitchins. Keyshawn has also stated that he might move up to 147. There are potential big fights available for him against the likes of Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, Jaron Ennis, Mario Barrios, and Brian Norman Jr., to name a few. While those are realistic names, it also depends on whether Keyshawn moves up and whether those fighters still remain there.