Lamont Roach Jr. Still Eyes Tank Davis Before Zepeda Fight

Roach says he has moved on from a Gervonta Davis rematch, but admits he would take it immediately while preparing for William Zepeda on August 1

Lamont Roach Jr. insists he has moved on from a rematch with Gervonta “Tank” Davis, yet says he would accept the fight immediately if the opportunity returns. Before any reunion can happen, Roach faces William Zepeda on August 1 in the toughest assignment currently in front of him.

“I’ve been moved on from a rematch with Davis, but if it presents itself, then obviously we’ll take it. You know, I really want to get what I deserve on paper. Even though I did it before, on paper I’d like that,” said Lamont Roach to DAZN.

Roach’s position is understandable. Many boxing fans felt he deserved the decision in his first fight with Tank, and a rematch would give him the chance to settle the issue officially.

Lamont followed that performance with another draw, leaving him without the type of win that would strengthen his position in negotiations for another marquee fight. Instead of rebuilding his leverage, he’s remained stuck while continuing to mention Tank and Shakur as preferred opponents.

Zepeda is one of the busiest pressure fighters in the lightweight division, and Roach will need one of the best performances of his career to beat him on August 1. A loss would leave him even farther from either Tank or Shakur.

Neither fight is close to becoming reality. Tank has other high-profile options available whenever he returns, and Shakur has repeatedly talked about Devin Haney and other major names since signing with Zuffa Boxing.

Roach may believe he already earned another opportunity against Tank, but boxing rarely works that way. Beating Zepeda is the only result that moves him closer to either fight. Another draw or a loss leaves him with even less leverage than he has now.