Two accomplished fighters, Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach, faced off for the WBA lightweight title in March 2025. Contrary to expectations of an easy win for Davis, Roach fiercely competed against him throughout the match. Despite a deliberate knee by Davis in the ninth round, not counted as a knockdown, the fight concluded with a contentious majority draw, allowing Davis to retain his title. This result has sparked much debate within the boxing community. With plans for a rematch, Roach recently revealed they had fought twice as amateurs when he was thirteen years old, sharing insights into their early encounters.

The Contested Championship Battle

In the highly anticipated championship bout between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach, the underdog fighter delivered an intense performance that defied all predictions. Instead of the anticipated one-sided battle favoring Davis, Roach matched his opponent's skills and tenacity round after round. The ninth-round incident involving Davis's intentional knee did not sway the judges' decision, leading to a controversial majority draw that left many spectators questioning the fairness of the outcome.

This thrilling contest showcased both athletes' remarkable abilities and determination. Roach's ability to withstand Davis's aggressive style and respond effectively added layers of complexity to the match. Even though Davis retained his title due to the judges' ruling, the public discourse surrounding the event emphasized the need for clarity in scoring systems. The controversy surrounding this match only heightened anticipation for their inevitable rematch, where fans hope for a definitive resolution to their rivalry.

A Journey from Amateur Roots

Lamont Roach's revelation about his early sparring sessions with Gervonta Davis offers fascinating insight into their shared history. At just thirteen years old, Roach found himself squaring up against Davis, who already carried a reputation as a standout young talent. These formative experiences provided Roach valuable knowledge of Davis's fighting style, which undoubtedly contributed to his strong showing in their professional encounter.

Retching back to their initial meetings over a decade ago, Roach recounted how they first crossed paths around age ten during amateur competitions. Davis's flashy demeanor and burgeoning fame set him apart even then, making him a formidable presence among peers. Their numerous rounds together as youths forged a deep understanding between them, influencing their later competitive dynamics. Roach credits these early interactions with giving him crucial advantages in recognizing patterns and anticipating moves during their recent high-stakes showdown, demonstrating how foundational training can shape future successes in the sport.