The two are never shy of speaking out
The relationship between boxing superstar Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis once seemed unbreakable. Often compared to a father-son dynamic, the bond they shared has since unraveled. Tension surfaced when Davis accused Mayweather of banning him from his gym during training for his 2023 showdown against Ryan Garcia. Though Davis officially parted ways with Mayweather Promotions in 2022, Mayweather publicly claimed he had no hard feelings. But soon after, Davis began openly criticizing his former mentor, accusing him of unresolved financial issues in Dubai. The situation has only escalated since then, with both sides throwing subtle jabs at each other.
Now, as Davis continues to shine in the ring, his coaches are speaking out about Mayweather’s actions and raising concerns over his decision to reportedly bar Davis from his training facility at such a critical time.
Coaches Demand Answers from Mayweather
Davis’ trainer Calvin Ford, along with assistant coach Kenny Ellis, recently voiced their frustrations in a video shared on Ford‘s Instagram. Ellis didn’t hold back, questioning Mayweather’s motives: “If Tank is like a son to Floyd, why would you put him out of the gym? Biggest fight of his career and you ban him. Why? Did you want him to lose?” The tone was unmistakably frustrated, as the coaches painted a picture of betrayal.
Ford echoed similar concerns, describing the emotional complexity of the relationship. He recounted a conversation with Mayweather where the boxing legend denied having blocked Davis from using the gym. However, both coaches remained adamant that Mayweather needed to be held accountable. Ellis went as far as to challenge the media to ask Mayweather directly about his motives: “I would love for the media to ask him, ‘What was on your mind when you put Tank out of the gym?'”
Despite the tension, Ford also saw a silver lining. Reflecting on the incident, he noted, “It was a lesson within a lesson. What felt negative was actually positive. Tank worked harder, and the results showed.” That hard work paid off when Davis knocked out Ryan Garcia in the 7th round, securing his status as one of the sport’s elite fighters.
What Lies Ahead for Gervonta Davis
With Davis riding high on his success, he is set to defend his WBA title against Lamont Roach Jr. on December 14 at the Toyota Center in Houston. Roach, holding a 25-1-1 record, poses a significant challenge. Meanwhile, Davis continues to build on his undefeated 30-0 streak, with his most recent victory being a knockout against Frank Martin in June.