Gary Russell Jr. Criticises Gervonta Davis and Devin Haney

In a candid and fiery interview, former featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr. didn’t hold back in criticising two of boxing’s most talked-about fighters, Gervonta Davis and Devin Haney. According to Russell, both fighters have been strategically avoiding the toughest competition in their divisions, instead opting for safer opponents that do little to advance their careers or please boxing fans. While Davis has garnered significant attention as the WBA ‘regular’ lightweight champion, and Haney holds the undisputed lightweight title, Russell claims that their reluctance to face elite-level opposition will eventually tarnish their legacies. For those looking to make these fights even more exciting, there’s a $20 deposit bonus for Kiwi available for fans eager to bet on the action.

Gary Russell Jr. Criticises Davis and Haney

Gervonta Davis: Avoiding the Toughest Tests?

Gervonta Davis (30-0, 28 KOs), often praised for his power and undefeated record, was singled out by Russell as a fighter who has been “bamboozling” the public. According to Russell, Davis has been carefully selecting opponents to ensure his unbeaten status remains intact, rather than challenging himself against the most dangerous fighters in his division. This, Russell argues, is a deliberate move by Davis’s camp to avoid putting him in situations where his record—and his marketability—might be at risk.

Russell’s criticism becomes especially pointed when discussing Davis’s upcoming fight against Lamont Roach, a fighter pulled up from the super featherweight division. For Russell, this is yet another example of Davis avoiding the real challenges that fans are eager to see. “Gervonta has been fighting opponents that the fans don’t want to see for years,” Russell remarked. “The only fight that really captured the public’s interest was when he faced Ryan Garcia, but even that bout was criticized because of the weight stipulations Davis imposed.”

Career Strategy vs. Legacy

The Baltimore fighter has held the secondary WBA lightweight title for several years, a belt that provides less pressure to face the division’s top contenders. Critics argue that this has allowed Davis to continue fighting lower-risk opponents while maintaining his champion status. This trend is often supported by lucrative sponsorship deals with casinos and bookmakers, which have become increasingly prominent in the careers of fighters. For more on how these sponsorships influence fight choices, check out this article on casino and bookmaker sponsorships in boxing. However, this strategy could have long-term repercussions. Russell noted, “He’s never going to be someone who brings in 1 million pay-per-view buys because he’s not fighting the opposition that people want to see.”

While Davis’s current trajectory has been lucrative, his reluctance to fight elite-level opponents may limit his overall appeal in the sport. Historically, the greats in boxing—such as Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard—earned their legacies by taking on the most formidable fighters available, often in highly anticipated and competitive matchups. Davis, on the other hand, seems content with maintaining a protected record, a move that could leave him underwhelming in terms of historical significance.

Devin Haney: A Misstep with Legal Battles?

Devin Haney (30-0, 15 KOs), the undisputed lightweight champion, hasn’t been immune to criticism either. Russell lashed out at Haney for what he termed a “sucker move” in suing Ryan Garcia after Garcia tested positive for Ostarine, a banned substance. Russell expressed disdain for Haney’s decision to take the matter to court, claiming that the lawsuit does little to improve Haney’s career or standing in the boxing world.

“I don’t think taking steroids or performance enhancers makes you a better fighter,” Russell stated. “If you’re a mediocre fighter, steroids aren’t going to change that.” For Russell, Haney’s decision to pursue legal action not only reflects poorly on him but could also prevent him from securing more meaningful fights. By suing Garcia, Haney has essentially ruled out the possibility of a rematch, which could have been a career-defining opportunity after his defeat last April.

Career Consequences and Public Perception

Russell emphasised the potential damage Haney’s legal battle could have on his career, particularly as it relates to public perception. “The backlash is obvious,” Russell said. “Instead of setting up a rematch to prove himself in the ring, Haney has chosen to take the fight to court. It’s a bad look, and now he’s lost the chance for redemption.”

Indeed, many in the boxing world have criticided Haney for pursuing this legal route. While it might bring financial compensation, it does nothing for his standing as a fighter. A rematch against “Kingry” could have allowed Haney to re-establish himself after the loss, but now, with Garcia ruling out a second fight, Haney’s career faces an uncertain trajectory.

Fighter Accomplishments and Career Highlights

To understand why these criticisms are so significant, it’s essential to examine the fighters’ respective accomplishments and the expectations placed on them.

Gervonta Davis (30-0, 28 KOs)

• Titles Held:
  • WBA (Regular) Lightweight Champion
  • Former WBA Super Featherweight Champion
  • IBF Super Featherweight Champion (2017)
• Notable Wins:
  • Knockout victory over Leo Santa Cruz (2020)
  • TKO win against Jose Pedraza (2017)
• Recognition: Known for his devastating knockout power, Davis has captured titles in multiple divisions. His fight against Ryan Garcia brought mainstream attention, but his reluctance to face top-tier opposition remains a point ofcontention.

Devin Haney (30-0, 15 KOs)

• Titles Held:
  • Undisputed Lightweight Champion
  • WBC Lightweight Champion
• Notable Wins:
  • Defeated George Kambosos Jr. to unify the lightweight titles (2022)
  • Victory over Joseph Diaz Jr. (2021)
• Recognition: Haney’s technical boxing ability and defensive skills have earned him the undisputed title at lightweight, but his career has been marred by controversial decisions outside the ring, including the ongoing lawsuit against Ryan Garcia.

Gary Russell Jr. (31-2, 18 KOs)

• Titles Held:
  • Former WBC Featherweight Champion
• Notable Wins:
  • Victory over Jhonny Gonzalez (2015)
  • Multiple successful title defences over a seven-year reign
• Recognition: Renowned for his speed and boxing IQ, Russell has been one of the top fighters in the featherweight division. His sharp critiques come from a fighter with a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

The Long-Term Outlook

The question remains: how long can fighters like Davis and Haney avoid taking on the most dangerous competition? Russell, for his part, believes that the current trend in boxing—where fighters are cherry-picking opponents to protect their records—will ultimately hurt the sport. Fans crave excitement and high-stakes matchups, and without those, even the most talented fighters risk losing the interest of the public and the sport’s broader audience.

In a sport built on pride, legacy, and the willingness to face any challenger, fighters like Davis and Haney may need to rethink their strategies. As Russell aptly put it, “Where’s the pride, the integrity, in wanting to prove you’re the best?” For now, the boxing world will watch closely to see whether these fighters rise to the challenge or continue down a path that could limit their potential greatness.

Final Thoughts

Gary Russell Jr.’s outspoken comments on Gervonta Davis and Devin Haney reflect a growing frustration among boxing purists and fans alike. As the sport evolves, it’s clear that both fighters have the talent to be remembered among the greats. However, their current approach may prevent them from reaching the heights of legends who took on all comers. Only time will tell if “Tank” and “The Dream” will change course and embrace the challenges that come with true greatness in the ring.