Former multi-weight world champion Roy Jones Jr. believes that Gervonta Davis is a special talent in the sport of boxing due to his ability to set up his opponents and then unleash his powerful punches, reminiscent of Mike Tyson. However, despite Davis’ impressive record of 30-0 with 28 knockouts, there are still significant criticisms regarding the quality of his opponents. Davis’ best wins have come against fighters like Ryan Garcia, Frank Martin, and Isaac Cruz, but he has yet to face top-tier competition like Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis, Canelo Alvarez, David Benavidez, or Dmitry Bivol. This lack of high-caliber opponents raises questions about Davis’ true skill level and his ability to perform against elite competition.
Terence Crawford’s Safe Approach
Similarly, Terence Crawford, another highly regarded fighter in the sport, has faced criticism for his cautious approach to matchmaking. Despite holding notable victories, such as his win over Errol Spence, Crawford’s resume lacks fights against the most elite boxers in his weight class. Jones Jr. suggests that Crawford has played it safe throughout his career, avoiding risky matchups that could test his true abilities. The absence of showdowns against fighters like Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis, Canelo Alvarez, or Dmitry Bivol leaves lingering doubts about Crawford’s place among the sport’s elite competitors.
While both Davis and Crawford possess impressive power and boxing skills, their limitations become apparent when examining the quality of their opponents and the risks they take in their careers. Jones Jr. acknowledges Davis’ punching ability and boxing skills but questions his overall resume and lack of exposure to top-tier fighters. Similarly, he commends Crawford for his versatility as a southpaw and his capabilities in the ring but highlights the absence of defining matchups that could solidify his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters today.
The assessments provided by Roy Jones Jr. shed light on the limitations of Gervonta Davis and Terence Crawford as elite boxers in the sport. While both fighters showcase impressive skills and potential, their reluctance to face the best competition available raises doubts about their true abilities and standing in the boxing world. Moving forward, it will be essential for Davis and Crawford to seek out challenging opponents and showcase their talents against the best fighters in their respective weight classes to silence the critics and solidify their positions among the sport’s elite.