Gervonta Davis’ taking of a knee during a fight with Lamont Roach is now officially under investigation.
The American superstar’s latest clash with Roach in Brooklyn ended in huge controversy as it was scored a majority draw.
Roach was left furious however, as in round nine Davis took a knee which the referee failed to score as a knockdown.
Had Davis’ brief touch to the canvas been scored as such, it would have seen Roach lifted to the upset winner on the judges’ scorecards.
After the fight, the champion clarified that he took a knee after his eyes were left agitated by grease from his hair which had run down to his face.
The incident is now subject to an official enquiry from the New York Athletic State Commission, who explained that referee Steve Willis’ decision was taken with a replay unavailable.
They said in a statement: “During the round in question, following the commission’s request for the replay video, there was a technical issue preventing the commission from receiving it within the allotted time for review.
“Therefore, the referee’s in-ring decision was relied upon and the fight continued.
“The commission is dedicated to preserving the integrity of combative sports.
“And it is committed to working with all promotions and production teams — on behalf of the athletes, officials, and fans – to ensure technical issues do not occur in the future that prevent the delivery of ringside instant replay feeds to the commission’s officials when needed.”
Davis claims he was left with a burning sensation in his eyes that he needed to be treated by his corner.
He insists it wasn’t down to any punches from Roach, who certainly gave Davis one of his toughest fight nights as a professional.
However, Davis’ hairdresser has moved to swiftly deny claims that he would have been impacted by any greasy product.
It appeared that ‘Tank’ wouldn’t grant an immediate rematch to Roach despite his rival’s pleas.
Roach believed he had well and truly earned a sequel, a view shared by the majority of the boxing fraternity.
But the WBA lightweight king has since made a U-turn on his rematch decision.
He wrote on social media: “And say no more. I’m pushing for the rematch. The rematch can be soon too, like end of May.
Premier Boxing ChampionsDavis himself wasn’t impressed with the decision believing he’d won[/caption]
“But this what happen, and I can only blame myself! But say no more!”
Roach responded: “Two judges gave you that round bruv. If they scored the knock down I win by unanimous decision.
“Word around the block, is that your favourite fighter is going to be be 30-1 not 30-0-1.”
The result of the fight could be well overturned if the knockdown is scored in the round.
And it could see Davis handed a first-ever career defeat without throwing a punch, a devastating blow which he will likely seek to immediately avenge.
