KEYSHAWN Davis has been compelled to contend with an act of racism ahead of his first world title shot against Denys Berinchyk.
The 25-year-old will look to secure the WBO lightweight strap tomorrow evening, headlining a Top Rank card at the Madison Square Garden Theater, New York.
In his last outing, ‘The Businessman’ produced a ruthless performance to halt Gustavo Lemos – who had previously gone the distance with IBF super-lightweight champion Richardson Hitchins – inside just two rounds.
But now, Davis, 12-0 (8 KOs), must enter what promises to be the toughest test of his professional career thus far, with newly-crowned titlist Berinchyk, 19-0 (9 KOs), representing a formidable hurdle.
The Ukrainian claimed his belt with a split decision victory over Emanuel Navarrete last May, outworking the elusive operator through large spells of their fiercely contested battle.
Before that, the 36-year-old had outpointed seasoned veterans Anthony Yigit and Yvan Mendy, cementing himself as a sturdy technician at 135lbs.
At yesterday’s press conference, though, Davis claimed that Team Berinchyk had sent a box, containing bananas and a watermelon, to his hotel room.
In turn, the blatant act of racism has seemingly enhanced his already belligerent approach, with the American confronting his opponent who, along with promoter Alex Krassyuk, vehemently denies any involvement in the incident.
Nevertheless, Top Rank issued a statement on social media to affirm their support for Davis, insisting that they are “appalled” and “disgusted” by the actions of whoever delivered the unsavoury package.
But while the days leading up to his title shot have been far from pleasant, Davis must nonetheless remain focused on the task at hand.
