Gervonta Davis has been promoted by the WBA from “regular” to “super” lightweight champion following Devin Haney’s relinquishment of the title.
The WBA has done away with the “regular” belt, leaving just one lightweight title within the organization.
The 29-0, 27 KOs, Gervonta Davis, also known as Abdul Wahid, previously held the less prestigious WBA secondary lightweight title, the “regular” belt, which he was content with.
Resistance to change
Gervonta has expressed his disinterest in transitioning from his “legitimate” WBA lightweight title to the status of full champion.
By relinquishing his WBA title, Tank Davis will evade the belt penalty and avoid defending against a mandatory challenger who may not contribute to the popularity and pay-per-view sales. He will be free from this dilemma.
Due to Tank Davis’ lack of enthusiasm, it is likely that he will soon vacate the WBA 135-pound belt and opt to pursue any of the other three lightweight titles in the IBF, WBC, or WBO.
Given Tank’s popularity, he does not necessarily depend on a title to continue expanding his fan base. Many fans in this era are not particularly concerned with titles, as they are often considered as promotional hype used by promoters and networks to validate a fighter and attract interest.
No need for a title
Tank can concentrate on facing high-profile opponents, regardless of whether they hold a title or not, relinquishing belts acquired in a “catch-and-release” manner. Fans are more interested in witnessing Davis in action, especially against top fighters such as:
- Shakur Stevenson
- Devin Haney
- Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela
- Frank Martin
- Vasily Lomachenko
- Raymond Muratala
- Subriel Mathias
- Teofimo Lopez
- Ryan Garcia
- William Zepeda
- Edwin de los Santos
- George Kambosos Jr.
- Floyd Scofield
- Keyshawn Davis
- Andy Crews
- Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Crews
