The rivalry between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont Roach Jr.escalated Thursday during a heated press conference in Washington, D.C., ahead of their highly anticipated March 1 clash at Barclays Center. While both fighters exchanged respect for their skills in the ring, the event took a sharp turn when Davis made a personal jab, mocking Roach’s father for “shaking” while speaking on stage.
Davis (30-0, 28 KOs), the undefeated WBA lightweight champion, didn’t hold back as he laid out his confidence for the fight. “Come March the first, we dance,” Davis declared. “Everybody knows how I get.” Despite his usual bravado, he acknowledged Roach’s “sneaky power”and promised to prepare for anything his opponent might bring to the ring.
The press conference took a personal turn when Davis turned his attention to Roach’s family. Referring to Lamont Roach Sr., Davis quipped, “He better not bring his family. None of them can stop this.”Tank specifically highlighted Roach Sr.’s nervous demeanor, mocking him for his “shaking hands” on stage. The comment drew laughter from Davis’ supporters but added fuel to an already intense rivalry.
Roach Jr. (25-1-1, 10 KOs), who is moving up a weight class for the bout, didn’t take the bait. Instead, he focused on his preparation and the improvements he’s made since their amateur days. “His team knows my work, up close and personal,”Roach said. “Come March 1, we’re gonna kick some a**.”
A rivalry rooted in amateur history
The fight between Davis and Roach isn’t just another title bout-it’s personal. The two have faced off twice in the amateurs, with Davis coming out on top both times. While Davis has since become one of boxing’s biggest stars,Roach has steadily built his resume, capturing the WBA super featherweight title and now aiming for gold in a second division.
“I’ve gotten better in every aspect since the amateurs,”Roach said. “I was one of the best then, and I’m much better now.”
Stakes Beyond the Ring
Both fighters emphasized what the fight means beyond personal glory. Davis framed himself as a representative for underdogs everywhere. “I’m not just repping Baltimore; I’m repping everyone who’s going through something,” he said. Meanwhile, Roach vowed to bring pride to Washington, D.C., saying, “I do it for the people with me. My whole family is from D.C.”
With Davis’ knockout power and Roach’s determination, the fight promises to deliver fireworks. But it’s not just about skill in the ring-it’s about pride, history, and personal stakes. As March 1 approaches, both fighters will continue to stoke the flames of one of boxing’s most personal rivalries.
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