Not Mark Magsayo, Gervonta “Tank” Davis’ official opponent is Lamont Roach Jr.

The boxing world is set for a massive event as Gervonta “Tank” Davis makes his highly anticipated return to the ring on March 1, 2025, at Madison Square Garden, New York. The undefeated knockout artist will defend his WBA Lightweight World Title against the technically skilled and determined Lamont Roach.

While fans initially speculated that Davis would face Mark Magsayo, those rumors have now been dismissed. Instead, Roach, the current WBA Super Featherweight Champion, will be stepping up in weight to take on one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport.

In addition to this thrilling main event, the fight card will also feature a high-stakes co-main event between Jose Valenzuela and Gary Antuanne Russell. With both fighters known for their aggressive styles, this bout could steal the show.

With fight night quickly approaching, let’s dive into the details of this must-watch event, including a breakdown of both matchups, fighter strengths, and expert predictions.

Gervonta “Tank” Davis: The Undefeated Knockout Machine Returns

Gervonta Davis (29-0, 27 KOs) is one of the most dominant punchers in the lightweight division. Known for his explosive knockout power, lightning-fast reflexes, and exceptional counterpunching ability, Davis has cemented himself as one of boxing’s most feared competitors.

His most famous victory came in April 2023, when he delivered a devastating body-shot knockout against Ryan Garcia, a moment that went viral and solidified his status as a generational talent. Since then, Davis has faced some legal troubles and a brief hiatus from the sport, but now he’s back and ready to prove why he’s the king of the lightweight division.

Despite his time away from the ring, Davis remains confident in his ability to dominate. In a recent interview, he stated:

“People love to talk, but I let my fists do the talking. On March 1, I’ll remind everyone why I’m still the best in this division.”

With a 93 percent knockout ratio, Davis has stopped nearly every opponent who has stepped into the ring with him. He possesses the rare ability to end a fight with a single punch, making him one of the most exciting fighters to watch today.

What Makes Davis So Dangerous?

• Elite Power: Davis carries fight-ending power in both hands, making him a knockout threat at any moment.
• Speed and Reflexes: His defensive skills and ability to counterpunch are world-class.
• Big-Fight Experience: Having headlined major pay-per-view events, Davis thrives under pressure.
• Ring IQ: His ability to read opponents and set traps makes him a complete fighter.

But despite his strengths, he is facing an opponent who has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Lamont Roach: The Skilled Technician Looking to Shock the World

Lamont Roach (24-1-1, 9 KOs) enters this fight as the underdog, but he should not be overlooked. The WBA Super Featherweight Champion earned this opportunity after an impressive victory over Hector Luis Garcia, proving that he belongs on the big stage.

While Roach lacks Davis’s knockout power, he makes up for it with technical skills, high fight IQ, and disciplined defense. Unlike some of Davis’s past opponents, Roach won’t recklessly trade punches. Instead, he will likely look to frustrate Davis with his movement, counterpunching, and ability to slip inside Davis’s power punches.

In a recent interview, Roach exuded quiet confidence:

“I respect Davis, but I’m not here to roll over. I’m here to take his belt. He’s never fought someone like me before.”

How Can Roach Beat Davis?

• Superior Footwork: If he can stay on the outside and move well, he can make it difficult for Davis to land clean power shots.
• Defensive Discipline: Roach rarely gets hit clean, which could help him survive the early rounds.
• Counterpunching: If he times Davis’s aggressive attacks correctly, he can land effective shots.
• Mental Toughness: Davis has been known to mentally break opponents—Roach will need to stay composed.

Despite these advantages, Roach will need to fight a near-perfect fight to avoid Davis’s power.

Co-Main Event: Jose Valenzuela vs. Gary Antuanne Russell

While Davis vs. Roach is the main attraction, the co-main event between Jose Valenzuela (12-2, 8 KOs) and Gary Antuanne Russell (17-0, 17 KOs) is just as exciting.

Russell is a highly aggressive, undefeated knockout artist who has stopped every opponent he has faced. Known for his relentless pressure and devastating punching power, he is considered one of the most dangerous fighters in the super lightweight division.

Valenzuela, meanwhile, is a highly skilled counterpuncher who thrives when facing aggressive opponents. He has a sharp jab, excellent timing, and the ability to turn the tide of a fight with his precise counter shots.

Prediction: This fight has knockout written all over it. Expect Russell to come out fast, applying pressure early. If Valenzuela can survive the storm, he may be able to take advantage of Russell’s aggression. However, Russell is favored to win by knockout in rounds eight to ten.

Expert Fight Predictions and Betting Odds

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach

Fight Analysis and Keys to Victory

Gervonta Davis

• Land early body shots to slow Roach’s movement.
• Cut off the ring to prevent Roach from escaping.
• Look for counterhooks when Roach tries to jab.

Lamont Roach

• Stay mobile and avoid exchanges.
• Keep Davis at bay with a stiff jab.
• Drag the fight into the later rounds where Davis has shown signs of slowing down.

Prediction: While Roach has the skills to make things tricky, Davis’s power is simply too overwhelming. Davis by knockout in round six or seven.

Jose Valenzuela vs. Gary Antuanne Russell

Prediction: Russell continues his knockout streak, stopping Valenzuela in round eight.

Why This Event is a Must-Watch

The March 1, 2025, boxing event at Madison Square Garden promises to be one of the most exciting fight nights of the year. With Gervonta Davis defending his title, Lamont Roach looking to make history, and Gary Antuanne Russell aiming for another knockout, this is a card that no fight fan can afford to miss.

Event Details

• Date: March 1, 2025
• Location: Madison Square Garden, New York
• Watch Live: Showtime Pay-Per-View

Get your tickets now and witness boxing history in the making.

Final Thoughts

Boxing fans around the world are eagerly awaiting Gervonta Davis’s return to action. Can Lamont Roach pull off the upset of the year, or will “Tank” add another devastating knockout to his highlight reel?

One thing is for sure—March 1, 2025, will be an unforgettable night of boxing. Stay tuned.