Nikisa Bidarian, who manages Jake Paul, mentioned on Wednesday that the nature of the upcoming fight with Gervonta Davis on November 14th – whether it will be officially recognized or simply an exhibition – is “still under consideration.”
Official Bout or Exhibition?
Nikisa Bidarian clarified to ESPN that discussions are still ongoing to determine if the Jake Paul versus Gervonta Davis match will be classified as an exhibition. He stated, “We’re still trying to work that out. Jake will certainly need to reduce his weight from the 200+ pounds he’s been at in prior fights. What I can assure you is that it will be a fight with a definite result, whether it’s achieved through a knockout or by decision.”
The legitimacy of the fight could be challenged by fans if it’s designated an exhibition based on official boxing records. While a non-exhibition match could generate more interest, the considerable size difference between Paul and Davis might cause some to view it as more of an entertainment spectacle than a serious sporting event.
Tim Bradley voiced his opinion on his channel about the November 14th Jake Paul vs. Gervonta Davis fight, stating, “They’re going to look strange in the ring. Jake is over 200 lbs. The whole thing is a circus. This is precisely why I can’t stand Jake Paul. It’s an unbelievably high payday. Tank Davis is bailing out PBC.”
Significant Size Disparity Concerns
There’s a difference of seven weight divisions between Tank Davis and Jake Paul, who usually fights as a cruiserweight. Even if a catchweight is agreed upon, bringing Paul down to the 180s, it will still represent a difference of seven weight classes. It’s likely too difficult for Paul to cut down to 175.
Bradley commented, “Tank Davis, never mind Shakur. Forget about Abdulah Mason and all the others. It’s going to look really weird, seeing Gervonta Davis next to Jake Paul who’s 40 or 50 pounds heavier. This is actually dangerous for Tank.”
Beyond the weight, the 6’1″ Paul is significantly taller than the 5’5″ Davis and is expected to have a substantial reach advantage. If Paul effectively uses his reach, it could be challenging for Tank to get past his jab. Davis had considerable trouble dealing with the size of the 6’0″ Mario Barios back on June 26, 2021.
The situation became so critical in the later rounds that Floyd Mayweather Jr. had to get up onto the ring apron to give Tank encouraging words. Jake Paul is 6’1″ and has a reach that exceeds Barrios’ by five inches. Davis could struggle with Jake’s weight, height, reach, and power.
