Following a stunning majority draw in the lightweight title bout between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach Jr., the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) is investigating a “technical issue” that prevented the proper review of what should have been ruled a knockdown.
The controversy stems from an incident in the ninth round at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, where Davis intentionally dropped to one knee, claiming that grease from his hair was burning his eyes. Referee Steve Willis ruled it a slip rather than a knockdown, despite acknowledging that the action “looks like a fall.”
The NYSAC attempted to review the incident using instant replay but encountered a technical issue that prevented them from accessing the footage in time.
“During the round in question, following the commission’s request for the replay video, there was a technical issue preventing the commission from receiving it within the allotted time for review,” a NYSAC spokesperson said according to The New York Post. “Therefore, the referee’s in-ring decision was relied upon, and the fight continued.” Had the knockdown been correctly ruled, the majority draw would have likely turned into a victory for Roach, crowning him the new lightweight champion.
Gervonta Davis punches Lamont Roach Jr. during their bout for Davis’ WBA lightweight title at Barclays Center on March 01, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Promoter slams NYSAC inaction
Promoter Lou DiBella criticized the NYSAC’s handling of the situation, calling it unacceptable: “They should have acted, and they shouldn’t even have needed replay; the rules are what they are, and what occurred was obvious,” DiBella said. “The referee made a big mistake, and it was compounded by the inaction of the Commission.”
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NYSAC promises improvements
In response to the controversy, the NYSAC released a statement vowing to address the issue: “The commission is dedicated to preserving the integrity of combative sports and is committed to working with all promotions and production teams — on behalf of the athletes, officials, and fans — to ensure technical issues do not occur in the future that prevent the delivery of ringside instant replay feeds to the commission’s officials when needed.”
Calls for decision to be overturned
While overturned decisions in boxing are rare, they are not unprecedented. For example, Ryan Garcia’s victory over Devin Haney at Barclays Center was overturned due to a failed doping test for the banned substance ostarine.
Garcia even took to social media to weigh in on the Davis-Roach controversy, writing on X: “Nothing against Tank, but since the commission switched my victory, they should switch this victory for Roach.”
A broader debate on accountability
The incident has sparked a broader debate about accountability and transparency in boxing, particularly in cases where technical errors or questionable refereeing decisions significantly impact fight outcomes. Roach and his supporters have every right to feel frustrated, and the ongoing investigation will be crucial in determining whether justice is served.
