Gervonta Davis could be forced to adjust his comeback strategy, with his targeted opponent reportedly ruling himself out of their mooted showdown.
The 31-year-old has not fought since March 2025, back when he retained his WBA world lightweight title with a controversial draw against Lamont Roach.
Many felt Roach was unfortunate not to emerge victorious, especially after flooring ‘Tank’ in round nine before referee Steve Willis ruled the incident a no-knockdown.
Following talks of an immediate rematch, Davis was then set to face Jake Paul in an exhibition match last November, only for allegations of domestic violence to remove him from the opportunity.
Since then, the American has been made WBA ‘champion in recess’, yet it remains unclear whether he will look to reclaim his old lightweight belt.
Instead, it appeared far more likely that he would return against Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, whom he unanimously outpointed back in 2021.
This time, it was reported that the pair would meet later this year at 140lbs towards the end of the summer, only now it seems that ‘Pitbull’ is exploring alternative options.
Taking to social media, boxing journalist Abraham Gonzalez said Cruz has joined forces with Canelo Alvarez trainer Eddy Reynoso, with whom he is expected to face a different opponent than Davis.
🚨Breaking🚨 Sources tell @FightsATW that Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz is now being trained by Eddy Reynoso. #Boxing Also being told that he will NOT be fighting Gervonta Davis next.
— Abraham Gonzalez (@abeG718) May 22, 2026
Gonzalez said that Cruz may look to reignite the rivalry after getting one fight with Reynoso in his corner under his belt. Whether ‘Tank’ waits around remains to be seen, but there are several other options available.
As the leading contender for his old WBA title at 135lbs, Floyd Schofield has urged ‘Tank’ to fight him instead of Vasyl Lomachenko.
With Lomachenko expected to make a comeback later this year, though, it is likely that Davis would view the Ukrainian as a more lucrative option, and perhaps look to restart the talks they were engaged in before ‘Loma’s retirement.
