BOXING

“Once he returns.”: Gervonta Davis Emerges as Preferred Rematch

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Gervonta Davis Emerges as Preferred Rematch Target for Isaac Cruz

Gervonta Davis is set to receive an offer to rematch Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, with the sequel now positioned as the preferred next move once Davis is in a position to move forward.

Sean Gibbons, who represents Cruz, confirmed to World Boxing News that a second fight with Davis sits at the top of the agenda.

“That’s the fight we want to do,” Gibbons told WBN. “Once he returns.”

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The comments mark a clear shift in direction following earlier discussions that briefly placed Davis on a shortlist of potential opponents for Manny Pacquiao. Gibbons confirmed that the scenario is no longer being considered.

Cruz points back to Davis after Roach draw
Cruz’s renewed focus on Davis follows his recent draw with former Davis opponent Lamont Roach. While a rematch between Cruz and Roach remains possible, World Boxing News understands that Davis is now viewed as the priority option for Cruz this summer.

The first meeting between Davis and Cruz in December 2021 produced a competitive, hard-fought bout that ended with Davis winning a unanimous decision. A rematch has remained a talking point ever since, particularly as Cruz continued to establish himself as a durable and crowd-friendly contender.

From Cruz’s side, the appeal is straightforward: a return to the biggest stage against one of boxing’s most recognizable lightweights.

Davis return tied to unresolved matters
Any movement on a rematch timeline is dependent on Davis resolving ongoing legal matters. Davis has not competed since his last ring appearance, and WBN understands that clarity on his return will come only once those issues are addressed.

Until then, the offer remains contingent rather than immediate. However, the intent from Cruz’s camp is clear, and the rematch is viewed as the most meaningful option available once Davis is ready to resume his career.

Pacquiao options narrow as landscape shifts
The change in Cruz’s direction also affects the wider picture at the top end of the sport. Pacquiao’s name has continued to circulate in comeback discussions, but Davis is no longer part of that equation.

Instead, new complications have emerged. Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that talks are underway involving Conor Benn, with the potential for Benn to step into the long-discussed title opportunity against Rolando Romero.

If that matchup is secured, either in the UK or Las Vegas, Pacquiao’s remaining options become increasingly limited, leaving familiar territory — including Floyd Mayweather — as one of the few realistic fallbacks.

For now, the clearest path forward belongs to Cruz. And once Davis can compete again, the rematch he has been waiting for appears to be waiting for him as well.

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