With an intense face-off, the Gervonta Davis–Lamont Roach Jr. press conference concluded in Brooklyn. Now it’s just a plain, simple fight. Roach Jr., a super featherweight champion, climbed up a division to challenge Davis for the lightweight title. The duo will clash at PBC-Amazon Prime’s kickoff card at the Barclays Center. Including the welterweight title challenges featuring Jose Valenzuela–Gary Antuanne Russell and Alberto Puello–Sandor Martin, the event promises one exciting fight after another.

For a change, fans witnessed a rather restrained Gervonta Davis. The pre-fight event took an interesting turn when the duo’s discussion drew in family members, especially Lamont Roach Jr.’s mother, who was present among the audience. A real-time shocker for many, it wasn’t the usual trash-talking ‘Tank.’ Instead, fans saw a smiling, cheerful fighter who extended respect to all. The small gesture became an instant hit.

Gervonta Davis: There are bigger things than just fights

“@Gervontaa refrains from trash talk after learning that @OneOf1x’s mother is in attendance,” the ‘Boxing News’ tweet read. A short clip featured Gervonta Davis and an equally excited Lamont Roach Jr. Like many, even the master of ceremonies was surprised by the toned-down atmosphere. Given the history between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach Jr., this fight felt different. Beaming, Davis explained, “Uh, no, you know I’m going to do me. I’m going to do me, regardless. I told him leave his mom’s and, you know, the people, home. He still brought them. It’s crazy, man. It’s going to get bad. Going to get bad, man. But, you know, it’s all love.”

But he didn’t shy away from highlighting Roach Jr.’s intemperate pitch. Roach Jr. responded, defending his right to talk confidently. When Davis asked why Roach brought his mother, the latter replied, “What do you mean, why I bring her? She love to see me whoop a**.”

Davis touched his heart. He was absolutely cool. He didn’t want to go overboard since Roach Jr.’s mother was present. The gesture witnessed a flurry of comments.

A heartfelt act that moved everyone

This fan had nothing but admiration for ‘Tank’ Davis. “Big respect, champ, for showing respect towards Lamont Roach’s mother for not disrespecting her son in front of everybody. Saturday night he’ll know who’s the real gorilla 🦍 in the ring 💪🏾,” they said. Indeed, a fight should remain within the ring and not extend outside and involve the family members. It’s a big thing.

Another one echoed similar feelings: “Tank a real one.” Davis tried not to get into his opponent’s head and keep things straight in the fight. It could set an example for young fighters to follow. For a few, ‘Tank’ became an inspiration. This fan said, “Salute, bruh. I would have done the same thing.” It’s high time. The echoes of the fight in the ring should reverberate louder than the words exchanged outside.

This follower wanted everyone to emulate Davis’ gesture. “It’s called RESPECT, and a lot of y’all should learn a lil something about that!!” they said. Let’s say he loses the fight. Fans would still remember Gervonta Davis for the respect he displayed at the press conference. For this fan, though, it’s the end that mattered: “It’s going to get bad” #TankByKO.” That’s an overwhelming sentiment. Davis enters the bout as the heavy favorite.

But what if Lamont Roach turns the tables on him?

Will Gervonta Davis still extend his respect to the new champion and his family? Now that’s something many would love to see. Until then, the gentle nod from the ‘face of boxing’ should serve as an example for everyone – like seasons, even fighters go through changes – some for the worse, others for the better.

What is your take on the Gervonta Davis-Lamont Roach Jr. fight prediction?