Shut up and fight: Gervonta Davis versus Rolando Romero

Rolando Romero goes new meaning to the word confidence.

Or is it arrogance?

“Gervonta Davis is ending up on the canvas knocked out. That’s what I can guarantee,” the challenger said at last month’s press conference.

Davis (26-0, 24 KOs) responded in kind.

“I want to knock him out. As soon as I hit him to the canvas, I want to look directly in his eyes like ‘I told you.’ Probably say some more words, but I want to see him on the ground.”

Davis will be defending an anomaly called the “regular” lightweight title courtesy of the always ridiculous WBA this Saturday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.  He won it in 2019 by stopping Yuriorkis Gamboa. Five years ago, he picked up the IBF strap in the featherweight division by knocking out Jose Pedraza. Davis defended the title once – then lost it on the scales. The WBA (them again) super featherweight title was his when he stopped Jesus Cuellar.

Lately, Davis has been fluctuating between lightweight and junior welterweight. He scored a monstrous knockout over division hopping Leo Santa Cruz on Halloween night in 2020. Then he added another WBA regular title to his resume by stopping gutsy Mario Barrios. His last fight was a grueling affair against relentless Issac Cruz, who lived up to his “pitbull” nickname. Davis battled through an injured left mitt to win a close decision.

Romero,26, who took up boxing nine years ago, can punch – starching 12 opponents in 14 professional fights. He captured a belt (I won’t say it) in his 12^th bout – decisioning Jackson Marinez. He stopped Avery Sparrow and impressively knocked out European champion Anthony Yigit.

Davis has noted his edge in big fights.

“We’ll see what this guy brings on fight night, under the bright lights. I had to walk through the door when it was time and become the man.”

Whatever Romero lacks in experience, he makes up for in flamboyance and verbose dexterity.  

“Man, I’m too big and too strong for him for him,” said Romero last week. I’m twice his size (not true) and on top of that, I punch harder, faster, and I’m a better boxer than him.”

And, “One round, I’m knocking him out. If I say I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it.”

Years ago, I asked Hall of Famer and former world champion Andre Ward how he felt about an opponent going off and making predictions. 

Ward said, “I always wonder who they (the fighter) are trying to convince. Themselves or the media.” 

Romero is awkward and packs some pop. 

Davis as he proved against Cruz, can box when need be. His punching power is well known. More tools in his toolbox.

Result: Davis by late stoppage.