WBA President Calls for Immediate Davis vs. Roach Rematch

The president of the World Boxing Association (WBA), Gilberto Mendoza, has announced that the organization will initiate an official request for a rematch between WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis (30-0-1, 28 KOs) and Lamont Roach (25-1-2, 10 KOs).

Mendoza is expected to submit the request to the WBA Championship Committee for a vote on an immediate rematch. If approved, the fight would need to take place within 120 days.

"I believe there can be no doubt that a rematch is necessary. This goes beyond public opinion on boxing—it concerns one of the sport’s biggest stars. We need to send a clear message. It was a highly controversial night.

Maybe referee Willis saw a competitive fight. Maybe he believed it wasn’t a knockdown. But how can you explain Davis taking a knee?" Mendoza stated.

For reference, on March 1, Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach fought to a D-MD 12—a majority draw after twelve rounds. The bout was overshadowed by a controversial ninth-round moment when Davis took a knee, but the referee did not rule it a knockdown, sparking debates among fans and the boxing community.

While Davis hasn’t ruled out a rematch, he has made it clear—it won’t be his next fight.