A controversy erupted in the boxing world after a highly anticipated title fight between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach ended in a draw, leaving many to question the integrity of the New York State Athletic Commission. The commission has confirmed it is reviewing the matter, citing a technical issue that prevented them from receiving replay footage in time for review.
Davis, considered a prohibitive favorite, took a knee in the 9th round after being hit by Roach’s punch. However, the referee chose not to count the knockdown, allowing the fight to continue. If the commission had ruled it a knockdown, Roach would have won via decision and become a two-weight champion.
Roach’s corner claims that Davis took a knee due to an eye irritation issue, which is a rule infraction during the round. The commission has faced criticism for its handling of past incidents, including overturning Ryan Garcia’s upset victory over Devin Haney.
The bout contract included a rematch clause, and Roach is now pushing for the rematch. “If you take a knee and the ref starts counting, it should be a knockdown,” Roach stated after the fight. The outcome has sparked debate among boxing fans, with some questioning whether the commission truly cares about the sport’s integrity.
Source: https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/44097765/nysac-says-reviewing-replay-process-knockdown-controversy