Roach Jr. Doubtful Over Davis Rematch, Eyes New Options at Lightweight

Lamont Roach Jr. has cast fresh doubt on his anticipated rematch with Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Telling BoxingScene that talks have gone cold and he is now exploring other options. Roach fought Davis to a controversial draw in March for the WBA lightweight title. With many believing he had done enough to win. The bout’s defining moment came in Round 9, when Davis shockingly took a knee mid-fight, claiming chemicals from his hair had seeped into his eyes. Referee Steve Willis opted against ruling a knockdown, enraging Roach’s team and fueling claims of favoritism toward Davis.

A rematch was expected for August 16 in Las Vegas, but no deal was finalized. Davis’ recent legal troubles further muddied the picture, leaving Roach frustrated.
“The rematch don’t look like it’s happening… we haven’t heard from Davis’ camp… We can’t afford to sit around and drag our feet.”

Roach (24-1-1, 9 KOs), who hasn’t defended his WBA junior lightweight title since defeating Hector Luis Garcia in November 2023, insists he feels stronger at 135 pounds and has little interest in cutting back down to 130 without a lucrative offer. His manager, ProBox TV boss Garry Jonas, confirmed that both PBC and Riyadh Season are interested in staging Roach’s next fight.