NEW YORK — The New York State Athletic Commission has attributed a “technical issue” as the reason officials were unable to review a replay during the fight between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach, as reported by various outlets on Monday.
The incident in question occurred in the ninth round when Davis was perceived to have gone to a knee. This knockdown, not called by referee Steve Willis, could have shifted the fight’s outcome. If identified, it might have resulted in a point deduction for Davis, potentially leading to a victory for Roach, along with the acquisition of Davis’ lightweight title. However, the bout concluded in a majority draw.
The Commission explained in a statement that during the critical moments, a request for the replay was made, but a technical glitch prevented them from accessing the footage within the required timeframe for decision-making. As a result, the fight proceeded based on the referee’s original decision.
The pivotal moment came when Roach landed a jab that appeared to connect with Davis’ eye. Subsequently, Davis turned, knelt, and then leaned over the ropes as his corner tended to him with a towel. Davis later mentioned that the irritation was due to grease entering his eye following a hair appointment earlier that week.
In the outcome, Davis was awarded the ninth round 10-9 on two of the judges’ scorecards. Should the knockdown have been acknowledged, Roach stood to gain a 10-8 advantage.
Final scores reflected a close contest, with one judge favoring Davis at 115-113, while the other two judges scored it a 114-114 draw.
In light of the controversy, both fighters remain open to the possibility of a rematch. Davis expressed his intentions publicly, indicating on social media that he is “pushing for the rematch.”
