Gervonta “Tank” Davis: the undefeated champion earns more than Bivol and Beterbiev combined

Gervonta “Tank” Davis has become one of the most electrifying figures in professional boxing. Known for his devastating knockout power, precision, and ability to generate massive paydays, Davis has carved out a legacy that puts him among the sport’s elite.

As of March 2025, Davis boasts an undefeated record of 30 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw, with 28 of those victories coming by knockout—a testament to his power and finishing ability. His recent draw came in a high-stakes title defense against WBA Super Featherweight champion Lamont Roach Jr., a fight that stirred controversy and fueled demand for a rematch.

Outside of the ring, Davis has become a financial powerhouse. Reports indicate that he earns at least $20 million per fight, surpassing the combined earnings of light heavyweight champions Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. With this financial success and in-ring dominance, Davis has cemented himself as one of the biggest draws in boxing today.

Early Life and Boxing Beginnings

Born November 7, 1994, in Baltimore, Maryland, Gervonta Davis grew up in a tough environment that shaped his fighting spirit. Under the mentorship of Calvin Ford—a former gang member turned boxing coach—Davis found discipline and purpose inside the boxing gym.

Davis quickly rose through the amateur ranks, winning multiple national championships before turning professional in 2013. His aggressive style, combined with knockout power, made him a prospect to watch.

Professional Debut and Meteoric Rise

On February 22, 2013, Davis made his professional debut with a first-round knockout of Desi Williams. This victory was the start of a dominant streak, as he continued to dismantle opponents with precision and explosiveness.

His first major title came in 2017 when he defeated José Pedraza via seventh-round knockout to win the IBF Junior Lightweight Title. The victory showcased his elite-level skills and put him on the map as a serious contender in the boxing world.

Championship Reigns Across Multiple Weight Classes

Davis is known for his ability to compete across multiple divisions while maintaining his knockout power. His title reigns include:

• IBF Junior Lightweight Champion (2017)
• WBA (Super) Junior Lightweight Champion (2018-2021)
• WBA (Regular) Lightweight Champion (2019-Present)
• WBA (Regular) Junior Welterweight Champion (2021-Present)

This ability to move up in weight and remain dominant is a testament to his versatility and skill.

Defining Fights in Davis’s Career

Throughout his career, Davis has delivered several high-profile victories that have defined his legacy:

• Gervonta Davis vs. José Pedraza (2017)
  • Won IBF Junior Lightweight Title
  • Seventh-round knockout victory
• Gervonta Davis vs. Léo Santa Cruz (2020)
  • Knockout win with a devastating uppercut in Round 6
  • Secured WBA (Super) Junior Lightweight Title
• Gervonta Davis vs. Mario Barrios (2021)
  • Moved up to junior welterweight
  • Won WBA (Regular) Junior Welterweight Title
• Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia (2023)
  • One of the biggest fights of the year
  • Seventh-round knockout
  • Generated over $50 million in revenue

The Draw Against Lamont Roach Jr.: Controversy and Future Implications

On March 1, 2025, Davis defended his WBA Lightweight Title against Lamont Roach Jr. at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The fight was expected to be a routine title defense, but it turned into one of the most controversial bouts of Davis’s career.

• The fight ended in a majority draw, with scorecards reading:
  • 115-113 Davis
  • 114-114 (twice)
• Roach landed more total punches, while Davis had the higher accuracy rate.
• In Round 9, Davis took a knee due to an eye issue, sparking debate over whether it should have been ruled a knockdown.
• The result left fans and analysts divided, with calls for an immediate rematch.

Despite the draw, Davis remains undefeated, and his position as a dominant champion is unchallenged.

Financial Success: One of the Highest-Paid Boxers Today

Gervonta Davis isn’t just a dominant fighter—he’s a box office star.

• Earns at least $20 million per fight, more than many champions combined.
• His 2023 fight with Ryan Garcia reportedly earned him $50 million.
• Consistently sells out arenas, from Las Vegas to Brooklyn.
• Massive PPV draw, with millions tuning in for his fights.

His ability to attract high-paying fights puts him in the same league as boxing’s biggest earners, including Canelo Álvarez and Tyson Fury.

Fighting Style and Strengths

Davis is one of the most dangerous power punchers in boxing today.

Key Strengths:

• Knockout Power: 28 of his 30 wins have come via KO.
• Explosive Speed: Delivers lightning-fast combinations.
• Southpaw Advantage: Difficult for orthodox fighters to adjust.
• Defensive Skills: Can roll with punches and counter with precision.
• Ring IQ: Ability to adapt mid-fight and exploit weaknesses.

At just 5’5″ (1.66m) with a 67.5-inch reach, Davis often faces taller opponents, but his ability to close distance quickly neutralizes reach disadvantages.

Impact on the Lightweight Division

Davis’s dominance has transformed the lightweight division. His willingness to take on high-profile fights has elevated the weight class to new levels.

Potential mega-fights in the future include:

• Gervonta Davis vs. Devin Haney: A battle for lightweight supremacy
• Gervonta Davis vs. Teofimo Lopez: A high-action, power vs. power matchup
• Gervonta Davis vs. Shakur Stevenson: A clash of elite boxing skills

Any of these fights would be blockbuster events that could further solidify Davis’s legacy.

Legacy and Future Aspirations

As of 2025, Davis remains one of boxing’s most dominant and marketable fighters. His ability to cross weight classes, generate massive revenue, and remain undefeated has already placed him among the greats.

Possible Future Achievements:

• Undisputed Lightweight Champion: Unify all major belts.
• Move Up in Weight Again: Potentially challenge for 140lb & 147lb titles.
• Boxing Hall of Fame Career: With his accolades, he’s already on his way.

At just 30 years old, Davis has years of dominance ahead, with plenty of opportunities to further cement his legacy.

Final Thoughts: The Unstoppable Force in Boxing

Gervonta “Tank” Davis is more than just an undefeated champion—he’s a game-changer in boxing. His ability to deliver electrifying knockouts, sell out arenas, and generate millions has made him one of the sport’s biggest stars.

Despite the recent draw with Lamont Roach Jr., Davis’s legacy remains untarnished. megafights on the horizon, he is set to continue dominating boxing for years to come.

What’s next for Gervonta Davis?

Fans eagerly await his next move, whether it’s a rematch with Roach, a lightweight unification bout, or even a jump to welterweight. No matter what’s next, one thing is certain—”Tank” Davis remains one of the most exciting and unstoppable forces in boxing today.