Canelo Alvarez slams Gervonta Davis over ‘hair grease’ controversy

Mexican boxing star Canelo Alvarez is angry with Gervonta Davis for not following boxing rules in his fight against Lamont Roach.

Canelo Alvarez slams Gervonta Davis over ‘hair grease’ controversy

Canelo Alvarez reacts to Gervonta Davis' recent fight against Lamont Roach (Image via Las Vegas Review/Barclays Center)

Gervonta Davis has faced intense scrutiny recently due to a controversial moment during his fight against Lamont Roach. At 30 years old and undefeated, Davis is considered one of the standout fighters in boxing. In light of this situation, many individuals have shared their opinions, including Canelo Alvarez, who offered some harsh criticisms of ‘Tank.’

In the ninth round of the fight, Davis appeared to take a knee. However, the referee did not award points to Roach for this moment. While the officials believed that Davis was taking a knee to address irritation from hair grease, the boxing community considered the broader implications. As a result, Canelo Alvarez, in particular, slammed ‘Tank’ for not abiding by the rules of boxing.

He take a knee, he needs to lose like 10-8 that round, at least. And plus, the corner go up and they put a towel in the face, that’s a disqualification, for sure. I’m talking about the rules, but, you know, it’s not my business.

Canelo Alvarez via Hot 97 on YouTube
YouTube video

Similar to Canelo, a majority of the boxing community and fellow boxers spoke out against ‘Tank’ Davis. Although the fight ultimately ended in a draw, many believed Lamont Roach was the deserving winner. Furthermore, throughout his professional boxing career, Davis has never been knocked down by any of the formidable challengers he has faced.

Following the fight, even Davis’ hairstylist faced intense scrutiny. As such, many believed they were one of the reasons that contributed to Roach’s loss. Additionally, Tank’s opponent team has now appealed the decision. Roach has called for an immediate rematch against the 30-year-old boxer, and Davis has also expressed interest in clashing with him again very soon.

Gervonta Davis reveals changing his plans about his retirement from the sport

The lightweight professional boxing category is home to some of the world’s most standout boxers. Gervonta Davis currently holds the WBA lightweight championship title, while Shakur Stevenson, Vasiliy Lomachenko, and Keyshawn Davis also have world titles in the 135 lbs weight class. Despite competing in such a challenging environment, ‘Tank’ Davis has expressed that he is losing his passion for boxing.

Gervonta Davis taking a knee against Lamont Roach
Gervonta Davis taking a knee against Lamont Roach (Image via MMA Fighting)

The 30-year-old boxer stated that 2025 would mark his final year as a professional athlete. However, after facing scrutiny and backlash due to his recent fight, Davis is reconsidering his decision. Additionally, the WBA lightweight champion revealed the potential number of fights he might participate in before retiring from the boxing world.

Yeah, it definitely changed my plans, it definitely changed my plans. I probably got four more fights now.

Gervonta Davis via Post-fight press conference
YouTube video

Interestingly, rival Shakur Stevenson was among those who were quite displeased with Davis’ retirement decision. Now, the WBA lightweight champion’s decision has opened more exciting matchups in the boxing community. In addition to a rematch against Lamont Roach, ‘Tank’ could also pursue an opportunity to unify the lightweight titles.

Related: Unbeatable Gervonta Davis knocked down! The only fighter who dropped the ‘Tank’

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