Gervonta Davis has been promoted to the WBA lightweight champion, a title he did not actively pursue, after Devin Haney vacated the position.
Previously holding the WBA’s “regular” 135-pound belt, Tank Davis did not have any plans to move up to the full title. Despite this, the unwelcome promotion has now occurred, leading to him being perceived by some as the “champion of email.”
Unwanted Status
Tank has the choice to accept or decline this promotion. However, becoming the outright WBA champion does not necessarily guarantee a change in his fortunes, especially as he already holds the position of the “face of boxing” and earns significant income from PPV matches. Therefore, this new title may not bring him any additional benefits.
Previously, the more prestigious WBA “Super” Champion status held significance. However, with Haney now in possession of the belt and Tank holding the less esteemed “Regular” title, its significance has diminished. The creation of the “regular” title by the WBA has further diluted the lightweight division.
Impact of the “Email Champion” Label
While being dubbed the WBC Mail Champion did not greatly affect Haney, Gervonta, viewed as the best fighter in the lightweight division, is unlikely to be significantly affected by criticism from fans.
Tank Davis can attribute his promotion to the WBA title to Haney’s relinquishment. Had Haney not given up the belt, Tank would still be the legitimate champion.
Kambosos, the unified champion, was perceived as weak, having secured three belts by defeating a demoralized, injured, underweight, and inactive Teofimo Lopez.
Davis has not indicated whether he will reject the promotion to become the outright WBA champion. If he does, top contenders for the title would likely be Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela and William Zepeda.
