Gervonta “Tank” Davis, the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight champion, is making waves in the boxing world not just for his wins in the ring but also for his bold claim of surpassing the financial achievements of the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the same age.
At 29, Davis has signed a mega six- to seven-fight deal with PBC (Premier Boxing Champions), which he claims is more lucrative than the six-fight deal Mayweather inked with Showtime back in 2013.
The Numbers Matchup
While the exact figures of Davis’ deal remain undisclosed, reports suggest it could be valued at around $250 million. In contrast, Mayweather’s 2013 deal was reportedly worth $200 million when he was at the same age. Davis, who had been managed by Mayweather until their relationship soured, made his bold claim during an interview with Cigar Talk.
“I’m at the point where I passed him and I’m doing it at a young age. When Floyd Mayweather was 29, you’ll see,” Davis said, going on to add that the deal he has signed is larger than Mayweather’s deal with Showtime.
“That [PBC] deal that I was talking about, that’s bigger than his [Mayweather’s] deal, and I’m just releasing it on here.”
The comparison between the two boxers goes beyond just financial matters. Right now, Mayweather’s legacy in the sport is unparalleled, marked by his undefeated record and victories over some of the biggest names in boxing history.
Davis’s career trajectory has raised questions about the quality of opponents he has faced. He has been accused of cherry-picking opponents he has a better chance of beating. This is something Mayweather had been accused of as well doing the peak of his career, most notable, as some critics have noted, ducking a match against the formidable opponent Manny Pacquiao, the first and only boxer to hold nine title belts in seven divisions.
It wasn’t until 2015 when Mayweather was 38 that he stepped into the ring with Pacquiao. Billed to be the “Fight of the Century,” the two world champions battled over 12 rounds, with Mayweather ultimately taking the crown.
Another factor weighing in on Mayweather’s earning potential was his ability to draw in massive TV audiences resulting in mega paychecks. Davis has yet to prove his power in attracting viewers.
Davis, whose record is 29-0, 27 KOs, has a potential showdown with Shakur Stevenson, Marca reported.
Mayweather’s net worth is estimated to be at $400 million. So far, Davis’ net worth is around $4 million.
