Written by Gervonta Davis | Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images
Canelo Alvarez has seen a lot in his storied career, but even he was confused by what went down in Gervonta Davis’ latest title defense.
“Tank” escaped with a majority draw against Lamont Roach Jr. this past Saturday in New York, retaining his WBA lightweight title in a highly contentious contest. In the ninth round, Davis paused the action to take a knee, then went to his corner where he was wiped down with a towel. Davis later explained he needed help to deal with grease was seeping into his eyes, the result of having his hair done two days before fight night.
At the time, referee Steve Willis did not rule Tank’s gesture as a knockdown nor was he penalized in any way for the odd maneuver. The New York Athletic Commission is currently reviewing the incident, but Alvarez’s thoughts on the matter are clear.
“In my opinion it was a draw,” Alvarez said when asked for his take in an interview with HOT 97. “He took a knee. You need to lose, like, 10-8 that round, at least. Plus, the corner go up and put a towel in the face, that’s a disqualification for sure. But it’s not my business.”
According to Section 211.16 of the NYAC’s boxing rules, regarding the conduct of coaches and cornermen, “During the progress of any round, seconds shall remain seated and shall not engage in disruptive behavior.” It’s unclear if Davis’ team is considered to have interfered with the action in an unjust way when he retreated to his corner to be toweled off.
Alvarez has nothing against Davis, but doesn’t see much room for interpretation as far as how the situation should have been officiated.
“I’m talking about the rules, but it’s not my business,” Alvarez said.