Gervonta "Tank" Davis returns to the ring Saturday night at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. where he puts his WBA (Regular) lightweight world title on the line against a game challenger in Hector Luis Garcia.
With the stakes high and a fight for "Tank" against Ryan Garcia looming later this year, here are the keys to victory for Gervonta Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) and Hector Luis Garcia (16-0, 10 KOs).
Keys to victory for Hector Luis Garcia
Disciplined pressure
Much like he did in his upset win over Chris Colbert in February 2022, Hector Luis Garcia must pressure Gervonta Davis with an open portfolio of punches. A constant flow of poking production could frustrate “Tank” and go ways toward eventually breaking him down. But key within this pressure is Garcia’s discipline. If Garcia opens up too much and gets a bit reckless, “Tank” will certainly make him pay.
Time counters sharply
It’s no secret that “Tank” is going to want to put on a show and that could account for some early aggression from the pound-for-pound talent. If Garcia senses Davis’ aggression early, he could stand to use it against him. A forward-fighting, loose “Tank” could be the opening to well-timed, sharp counterpunches to catch the WBA (Regular) lightweight champion off guard.
Don’t let the moment be too big
This is easily the biggest fight of the 31-year-old Dominican’s career. Although he handled the spotlight well in his bout against Colbert, there will be way more eyes on this fight against “Tank” and his ever-growing star power. Garcia embracing his underdog role could help toward not being swallowed up by the moment and the bright lights with this pay-per-view main event.
Keys to victory for Gervonta Davis
Stay focused, don’t get too overzealous
This fight week had “Tank” revealing extra motivation to go out and put on a show at Garcia’s expense. Well, the champ shouldn’t allow himself to get too reckless to produce those fireworks. He’s the main-event attraction and easily one of fastest-growing superstars in the sport. Taking his opportunity to land something wicked when he sees it over trying to force another highlight reel KO is key.
Show Garcia why there are levels with his boxing
Garcia is moving up to take on “Tank.” And while Davis is known for his explosive, lights-out power, he often doesn’t get heralded enough for his boxing ability. “Tank” has the lane to show Garcia why there’s levels to this fight game and he could do it with his boxing, especially piecing together those fast-twitch combinations.
Launch that uppercut
Gervonta Davis’ uppercut is a detonating weapon. If he can bait or lull Garcia in, it will mark the perfect green light to launch that uppercut with bad intentions. If Davis lands the shot clean, it’s a wrap and the build toward Davis vs. Ryan Garcia can begin.