Gervonta Davis’ Legal Issues Lead to Cancelled Fight with Jake Paul

Gervonta “Tank” Davis has found himself in more legal trouble, which has resulted in the cancellation of his upcoming exhibition match with Jake Paul.

Interestingly, this setback has opened the door for Paul, who will now be facing two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua next month.

The highly anticipated fight is set for December 19th at the Caseya Center in Miami. It will officially be a heavyweight match, featuring 10-ounce gloves and lasting eight three-minute rounds.

In a statement, Paul expressed his excitement: “A professional heavyweight fight against an elite world champion in his prime. When I beat Anthony Joshua, all doubts will disappear, and no one could deny me the chance to compete for a world title. For those who doubt me, this is what you wanted,” he declared. Paul added a cheeky apology to British audiences, stating, “On Friday, December 19th, under the lights of Miami, streamed worldwide only on Netflix, the torch will be passed, and Britain’s Goliath will be laid to rest.”

This matchup marks Joshua’s return to the ring after losing his IBF title to Daniel Dubois on September 21, 2024. Notably, he held that title until August of 2022.

Joshua said, “I took some time off, but I’m coming back with a mega show. It’s a big opportunity for me.” He added, “Whether people like it or not, I’m here to make big waves, fight challenging matches, and break records. Mark my words, you’ll see more fighters seize these opportunities soon. My fight with Jake Paul will be one for the ages.”

Initially, Paul was set to fight Davis on November 14, but the match was scrapped following Davis’ legal troubles involving assault and threats against his ex-girlfriend.

Upon the fight’s cancellation, Paul did not hold back, referring to Davis as “actual walking human trash.” He detailed his frustrations on Instagram, describing working with Davis as a nightmare filled with unprofessionalism and bizarre demands. “To support this man is to support the most despicable crime a man can commit,” Paul stated.

Paul emphasized that he didn’t want to provide “this abuser of women” a platform to grow his fanbase or wealth. He expressed regret for the impact on others involved in the promotion, adding, “A team that has worked hard to prepare, sacrificing time with their loved ones and children just for this idiot to lose his intelligence once again.”

This will be Paul’s second heavyweight bout; he previously gained weight to fight Mike Tyson last year, winning by unanimous decision.