On December 14th, boxing fans will witness Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis defend his WBA lightweight title against Lamont Roach Jr. in Houston. This event, streamed exclusively on PBC on Prime Video PPV, presents not only a fight for the title but also an intriguing spectacle for fight enthusiasts. Gervonta Davis, known for his powerful punch and swift knockouts, undoubtedly brings a high level of excitement to the ring. However, the choice of Roach as an opponent raises eyebrows and ignites debate regarding the fight’s overall appeal.
The Question of Marketability
One critical aspect of this matchup lies in its marketability. The price of $75.95 for the PPV has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. In an era where fight fans are increasingly selective with their viewing choices, the pressure is on to deliver an undercard that justifies this steep cost. Unlike his previous fight against Frank Martin, which was accompanied by an action-packed undercard featuring hot prospects like David Benavidez and Oleksandr Gvozdy, the upcoming event lacks a co-feature that generates substantial buzz. Without a marquee undercard bout, drawing in viewers may be a daunting task.
Choosing Roach: A Strategic Decision?
Davis’s decision to face Roach over the more dangerous contender Edwin De Los Santos elicits skepticism about his fight strategy. While Roach, a fighter rising from the super featherweight division, is skilled and technically sound, he may not pose the same knockout threat that De Los Santos represents. This choice could reflect Davis’s desire to maintain a record of successful defenses rather than risking an encounter with a high-risk opponent. It’s essential to note that Roach obtained special permission from the WBA to compete at lightweight, a decision that signifies both opportunity and challenge.
Should Roach manage to secure a victory against Davis, he faces a crucial decision in the aftermath. He will have five days to determine whether to hold onto the lightweight title or revert to defending his super featherweight title. This decision underscores the complexities of boxing titles in multiple weight classes, creating layers of uncertainty about future matchups. Fans are left considering the implications of either outcome for both fighters and the trajectories of their careers.
Ultimately, for this event to succeed and capture the attention of boxing fans, it requires more than just a compelling main event. History shows that significant pay-per-view events thrive on a well-structured undercard that keeps fans engaged and provides value for money. For Davis vs. Roach, generating interest beyond the main attraction is essential. This includes confirming co-feature fights that resonate with audiences, continuing the trend of placing high-stakes boxing in the spotlight.
The December 14th showdown presents a mix of potential and uncertainty. While Gervonta Davis remains a prominent figure in boxing, the effectiveness of this event will heavily depend on how well the promotion manages to captivate both die-hard fans and casual viewers alike.