Keyshawn Davis set to open Top Rank/DAZN deal in grudge match

As reported by BoxingScene, Keyshawn Davis (14-0, 10 KOs) will return to action on May 16, facing Nahir Albright in a rematch of their previous no-contest in 2023. They will meet in a 10-round contest at The Scope in Davis’ hometown of Norfolk, Virginia, as confirmed by Dan Rafael at Fight Freaks Unite.

Top Rank and DAZN embark on new deal

DAZN and Top Rank have announced a landmark multi-year partnership that will bring Top Rank’s talented fighters and the company’s historic fight library to DAZN worldwide.

Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum reflected on the new partnership: “Since the day I started Top Rank 60 years ago, our focus has been simple: sign the best fighters, develop them into champions and make the best fights possible. DAZN’s position as the global home of boxing makes this a natural partnership, and I’m confident it will be tremendously beneficial for fighters, fans and the future of the sport.” 

Keyshawn Davis set to top first Top Rank/DAZN card

After an impressive amateur career, Keyshawn Davis turned professional, and despite still being undefeated, it’s been anything but straightforward for the Virginia fighter. 

Davis first fought Albright in 2023, with Davis winning by majority decision, with scores of 97-93, 96-94 and 95-95. That win was soon changed to a no contest by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, resulting in Davis being suspended for 90 days because he tested positive for marijuana in a post-fight drug test. Marijuana is still a banned substance in most jurisdictions.

Davis has enjoyed brilliant moments in his professional career, including winning the WBO lightweight title, only to be stripped of that belt for being a whopping 4.3 pounds overweight before his first defence against Edwin De Los Santos last June, with the fight being cancelled.

On the Davis-De Los Santos undercard, Albright defeated Kelvin Davis by majority decision, leading to his brothers Keyshawn and Keon Davis attacking Albright in his dressing room.

Keyshawn Davis comeback

Following the drama of missing weight and the Albright incident, Keyshawn Davis spent 11 months out of the ring, largely out of the limelight, where he dealt with personal issues, while making changes to his team. 

Davis returned to action on the Shakur Stevenson-Teofimo Lopez undercard in New York on January 31. He looked in great condition, delivering a dominating performance, winning by 12th-round knockout against Jamaine Ortiz.

Albright was recently in action, drawing with Frank Martin on the February 21 Ryan Garcia-Mario Barrios undercard.