Gervonta Davis showed signs of irritation when fielding questions from reporters at Monday’s media event regarding his choice to face Jake Paul instead of a second match against Lamont Roach.
Tank’s Sharp Response to Reporter
Davis (30-0-1, 28 KOs) responded sharply to the reporter, emphasizing the perceived inconsistency of media support for fighters.
The question posed to Davis, the celebrated WBA lightweight titleholder, was straightforward. Boxing enthusiasts are curious as to why he opted for a bout with the YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul instead of competing against what many consider more deserving contenders in his weight division:
- Shakur Stevenson
- Lamont Roach
- Teofimo Lopez
- Devin Haney
Paul and Davis were present Monday for their initial press conference at the Palladium Theater in New York, NY, to promote their exhibition fight scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The event will be available for live streaming on Netflix.
Paul informed the media that he anticipates his fight against Davis to surpass the viewership record established by his contest against Mike Tyson on November 15, 2024, which garnered 108 million viewers worldwide on Netflix. By comparison, the recent match between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford attracted a significantly smaller audience of 41.4 million viewers.
Tank Reacts to Critique
“Why should I be concerned with their opinions? A fighter can experience an off day, and suddenly you all abandon your previously favored fighter,” remarked Gervonta Davis during today’s opening press conference, addressing the criticism he has encountered from fans for selecting Jake Paul as an opponent instead of pursuing a rematch with Lamont Roach or bouts against Devin Haney, Teofimo Lopez, or Shakur Stevenson.
Davis’s reaction to the reporter indicated a sensitivity to the disapproval surrounding his decision to fight Paul next. However, his choice is understandable considering the estimated $40 million payout Davis is projected to receive for the Paul fight, which likely surpasses the financial compensation he would earn in a rematch with Lamont Roach or fights against Haney, Lopez, or Stevenson.
Paul’s Audience, Tank’s Income
Those potential opponents lack the extensive social media presence that Paul possesses, which enables him to connect with millions of followers and promote his fights effectively.
“You all should simply relax and enjoy the sport as fans. You even delve into people’s private lives. When did it become acceptable to do that? You seem to want me to fail. When individuals remain in the spotlight for extended periods, others desire to see someone else take their place,” stated Davis, addressing the media.
