As March 1st draws near, combat sports fans are buzzing with anticipation for the showdown between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont Roach Jr. Yet, there seems to be a prevailing sentiment in the boxing community that the outcome is already a foregone conclusion. Many are pointing to Davis’ past victory over Roach in their amateur days back in 2011, which some believe sets the stage for another easy win for Davis. However, this assumption might be overlooking the complexities of the matchup.

While Davis’ victory in the amateurs certainly gives him a mental edge, Roach has grown as a fighter since then. Despite coming off an impressive TKO victory over Feargal McCrory last year, and holding a solid record of 25-1, Roach still doesn’t seem to be getting the respect he deserves. And what makes matters even worse? Terence Crawford recently threw his hat into the ring. Let’s dive into the harsh reality that Crawford laid out for Roach ahead of this high-stakes bout.

Terence Crawford’s tough love for Lamont Roach

During a visit to Madison Square Garden for Keyshawn Davis’ historic Valentine’s Fight Night victory against the Ukrainian, Denys Berinchyk, Crawford was approached by Fight Hype for a quick chat. The conversation took a turn when the reporter asked him about Gervonta Davis’ upcoming fights. The reporter was also curious to know whether unification was on the horizon for the champion or not.

Crawford responded by saying, “Whoever,” suggesting that he is not concerned with who Gervonta Davis fights next. He then directly addressed Tank, stating, “He knows what he is up against when he fights Shakur or Keyshawn.”

Crawford’s statement is a sharp critique of the level of competition Davis had been facing. ‘Bud’ particularly highlighted that while other opponents might have some skill, they lack the mental toughness. “They might have a little skills here and there. But mentally wise they not going to be able to keep it up that whole fight,” the 37-year-old added. Crawford’s got a hunch—Shakur Stevenson and Keyshawn are the ones to rain on Tank’s parade and “give him his first L”.

Crawford’s words indirectly downplay Davis’ upcoming fight with Lamont Roach. He suggested that Roach doesn’t have the mental toughness or the ability to last with Tank. But you know what? While Gervonta Davis might seem like a lock to win this fight, the truth is, even Tank has his insecurities.

Gervonta Davis comes face to face with his biggest fear

Despite his stellar 30-0 record with 28 knockouts, the Baltimore native recently opened up about his biggest fear. And what is that? In a Gloves Off segment on YouTube, Davis admitted that the idea of being embarrassed motivates him to stay at the top of his game. “I ain’t trying to go out and get my b-tt kicked,” he said, stressing the pressure to keep his spotless record intact.

This, in a way, fuels his intensity to prepare for the fight with everything he has. “He’s not going to win. You better be ready [Lamont]!” the WBA Lightweight stated. He’s aware that his pride and his carefully cultivated image are on the line. And even though Roach may seem like a mere stepping stone in Davis’ career, don’t expect Gervonta Davis to take this fight lightly.

On the other hand, Lamont Roach is completely unfazed. Despite being the heavy underdog, Roach is ready to rise to the occasion and show the world he belongs in the same ring as Tank. With his “I’m really him” mentality, Roach is determined to prove all the critics wrong, vowing to bring “smoke” on March 1st.

Do you think Lamont Roach has a legitimate chance of beating Gervonta Davis? Should Terence Crawford have shown more respect to Lamont Roach? Or do you think his assessment was accurate based on Roach’s past performances?