Norfolk boxing talent Keyshawn Davis will vie for the World Boxing Organization lightweight title against Denys Berinchyk at Madison Square Garden Theater in New York on February 14. A victory would not only mark his ascension towards world champion status but could open discussions regarding undisputed lightweight supremacy with WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson acting as an obstacle.
Davis and Stevenson share an inextricable bond, dating back to their formative years. It runs so deep that Davis publicly stated his hesitation to fight Stevenson again due to their close personal ties and claimed Stevenson supported him during times of difficulty, including depression and his stay at an 18 mental health facility facility.
However, recent statements by Davis in an interview with Fight Hub TV suggest that the previously unimaginable fight could be on the horizon, provided the financial incentive is substantial enough. Initially joking about a $500 million purse, Davis later adjusted this figure to a still astronomical but slightly more conceivable $100 million. Despite these comments, Davis’s willingness to fight Stevenson seems to fluctuate, indicating internal conflict over the decision.
Aiming for Championship Unification Minus Stevenson
Although Davis suggested fighting Stevenson under certain conditions, his priority has remained on unifying titles with other champions post-Berinchyk. Notable names included Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis and Vasiliy Lomachenko as potential fight opponents; Stevenson was expressly excluded. This emphasizes how difficult the dynamics can be between professional ambitions and personal loyalties and friendship.
Davis’s remarks open up speculation of an anticipated blockbuster fight between himself and Stevenson; however, their relationship and Davis’ previous stance could preclude such a matchup from occurring. Such is the delicate balance between sport’s demands and personal relationships in fighters; does fame and fortune ever outweigh lifelong friendships?