
via Getty
WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 07: Gervonta Davis punches Hector Luis Garcia in their WBA World Lightweight Championship bout at Capital One Arena on January 7, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

via Getty
WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 07: Gervonta Davis punches Hector Luis Garcia in their WBA World Lightweight Championship bout at Capital One Arena on January 7, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Boxing promoter and Top Rank president Bob Arum has long been recognized for his role as a promoter and his ability to navigate the complexities of the sport. Recently, the 91-year-old expressed reservations about the possible matchup between Gervonta Davis and Shakur Stevenson. Both Davis and Stevenson are currently two of the biggest prospects in boxing and are touted to be the sport’s next big stars.
However, Arum feels that this fight is not ready to be booked just yet. He feels that this fight is a gamble that might not pay out the returns both camps want for themselves and their fighters. In addition, Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe also feels that this fight won’t be as big of a draw as some other potential fights.
In a recent interview, Arum was asked about the possibility of this fight. He stated boxing promoters are not gamblers and have to weigh in the costs and returns for each fight. “It’s not a question of not ready! We aren’t gamblers! To put up tremendous guarantees for that fight to make a couple of dollars if you’re lucky, probably lose considerable money, why do it?” he said
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Ellerbe also agreed with this sentiment and claimed that he has been telling fans the same thing for years. He also urged fans to start understanding the complexities that come with booking a fight. “Hmmmmmm at some point y’all going to start listening wtf I be saying lol.” he wrote.
Hmmmmmm at some point y’all going to start listening wtf I be saying lol. https://t.co/U2N5XViIm7
— Leonard Ellerbe (@LEllerbe) May 17, 2023
This was not all as the fans were also quick to jump in and respond to the agreement between Arum and Ellerbe. While many supporters expressed their disappointment at the potential delay or cancellation of the matchup, others recognized the complex financial considerations and risks involved in organizing such high-profile fights.
Fans react to Leonard Ellerbe agreeing with Bob Arum about a potential fight between Gervonta Davis and Shakur Stevenson
A user stated that when Ellerbe claimed the same thing fans were quick to call him out. However, not that Arum has come out stating the same they have changed their opinions.
It’s funny how they don’t listen to you, but when someone else says it… it’s “facts” 🙄
— Sub-Zero 🏁 (@YallMustaForgot) May 17, 2023
According to one user, Stevenson was not a big enough name to draw large numbers.
Basically Shakur is not a big enough name yet
— MIKE KING (@MIKEKIN73778218) May 17, 2023
Read More: Ryan Garcia Quotes a Line From the Bible While Recovering From His First Pro Loss to Gervonta Davis
Moreover, Malachi Williams of TRU Media Today USA Boxing revealed that although he does not agree with the promoters on everything, they have been consistent in their take on this potential matchup.
Although I don’t agree with everything Bob Arum or Leonard Ellerbe says. When it comes to how big fights get made, from a business standpoint. Both Leonard and Bob have been saying the same thing. Leonard has been consistent with that message to be fair.
— Coach Malachi Williams (@coach_malachi) May 17, 2023
However, one user stated that if ‘Tank’ was a big draw, he should do financially well in fights regardless of the opponent.
But if Tank is the massive star people say he is, then he should be able to do huge numbers regardless of the opponent.
— twthandle02108 (@twthandle02108) May 17, 2023
Lastly, a user claimed that Arum has a ‘masterplan’ for his boxers with Davis having no place in it. Moreover, he also revealed the only way fans could see Devin Haney vs Davis.
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Arum has his master plan: Shakur vs Loma, Haney vs Teofimo. Tank has no place in it. Only way we get Tank vs Haney is if Haney wins, becomes a free agent, and doesn't try to act like the A-side cause he's undisputed.
— Cuddly Teddy Bear (@_SirAntMan_) May 17, 2023
Despite their desire to witness the Davis vs. Stevenson bout, some fans have shown understanding and support for Arum and Ellerbe’s cautious approach. They recognize the financial complexities involved in organizing such fights. However, with the current success of the super fight between Ryan Garica and Davis, this fight could certainly be a possibility in the future.
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Watch This Story: Gervonta Davis’ Greatest Rivals: Ryan Garcia, Teofimo Lopez, Josh Taylor, and 5 More
What did you think about Ellerbe and Arum touting this fight as a gamble? Let us know in the comments.
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