Advanced negotiations are underway for a rematch between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, potentially setting up one of the most anticipated fights of the summer. If finalized, the bout would take place at 140 pounds (junior welterweight) a move up from the lightweight limit where their first fight occurred.
The two fighters first met in December 2021 in Los Angeles, where Davis defeated Cruz by unanimous decision while defending his WBA lightweight title. Despite the clear scorecards, the fight was widely regarded as one of the toughest bouts of Davis’ career, with Cruz applying relentless pressure and pushing the Baltimore star the full 12 rounds.
At the time, Cruz earned significant respect for his performance and emerged as a serious contender in the division. The Davis–Cruz fight stood as the closest contest of Gervonta Davis’ career for several years.
That changed in March 2025, when Davis narrowly escaped with a controversial decision against Lamont Roach Jr. in Brooklyn. Roach later fought Cruz for the WBC interim super lightweight title, and the two battled to a majority draw in December in San Antonio. That result further strengthened the case for Davis and Cruz to run it back.
Davis’ Long Layoff
Gervonta Davis (30-0-1, 28 KOs) has not fought since the bout with Roach. His planned exhibition against influencer-boxer Jake Paul was canceled after Davis was accused of domestic violence by an ex-girlfriend. He was arrested in Miami on January 28 in connection with those allegations.
Despite the legal issues, talks for his return to the ring appear to be moving forward. Cruz (28-3-2, 18 KOs) remains one of the most aggressive pressure fighters in the sport. Known for his durability and nonstop style, “Pitbull” has long sought a second chance against Davis after pushing him harder than most opponents ever have. A rematch at 140 pounds could favor Cruz physically. As both fighters have grown into the weight class since their first meeting.
What’s at Stake
If the fight is finalized, the rematch would likely be one of the biggest fights in the junior welterweight division this year. Potentially reshaping the title picture at 140 pounds. For Davis, it’s a chance to silence doubts after two difficult fights. For Cruz, it’s the opportunity he’s been chasing for nearly four years revenge against the one man who denied him the biggest victory of his career.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
