The root cause of the spectacular collapse of the alliance between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Gervonta “Tank” Davis is a vicious power struggle that forced their former advisor, Leonard Ellerbe, to take sides, leading to a personal and professional schism that destroyed a 40-year relationship.
Ellerbe, the long-time CEO of Mayweather Promotions, has finally revealed the full emotional toll of the feud, detailing how the “tug of war” over Davis compelled Mayweather to issue a non-negotiable ultimatum: “Tank or Me.”
Floyd’s Ultimatum: The 40-Year Loyalty Breakdown
The actual cause of the split was not just business, but a deeply personal clash of loyalties that centered on Ellerbe’s role as a trusted mentor to both men. When Davis’s star began to eclipse the need for his promoter, the internal pressure became unbearable.
Ellerbe, who has advised Mayweather since the late 1990s, recounted the heartbreaking ultimatum that ended their professional and personal relationship. The advisor confirmed that Mayweather made him choose between his biggest star and his most significant project.
“This boxing s**t is deep and real,” Ellerbe stated. “Two people I know and have been knowing for 40 years that f**k with him got mad because Tank is my guy and will be forever. They said to pick a side. I said f**k you, we haven’t spoken since.”
This explosive quote confirms that Ellerbe chose his ongoing advisory role with the undisputed star, Gervonta Davis, over maintaining his four-decade alliance with the boxing legend. Ellerbe’s decision led directly to his departure as CEO of Mayweather Promotions, underscoring the severity of Mayweather’s command: If you’re with Tank, you’re against me.
The Rise and Rupture: Mayweather-Davis Relationship Timeline
The relationship between Mayweather and Davis began in 2015 when the Baltimore prodigy signed a promotional deal with Mayweather Promotions. “Tank” often credited Mayweather as a mentor who taught him not just the ropes of the ring, but the business of the world.
2017 Breakthrough: Davis exploded onto the world scene, winning the IBF super-featherweight title. Mayweather enthusiastically branded Davis as the future of boxing.
Growing Tensions (2019-2022): Despite success, tensions began to surface. Davis hinted at frustration over inactivity and feeling undervalued by the promotion. Mayweather, known for meticulous control, reportedly felt Ellerbe was granting Davis too much autonomy. Rumors of issues between Davis and members of the Mayweather family further exacerbated the growing rift.
The Final Move (2022): Following his victory over Rolando Romero in May 2022, Davis formally announced his departure from Mayweather Promotions, declaring the end of his contract. This move led to Davis taking control of his own promotional destiny, elevating Ellerbe’s advisory role and creating the direct conflict of interest that ultimately fractured the Mayweather-Ellerbe partnership.
The New Power Base: Ellerbe and Tank Go Independent
Ellerbe’s dramatic exit and his blunt confirmation of the ultimatum shed light on the intense power dynamics within the sport. While Mayweather quickly replaced Ellerbe as CEO, the personal loss is immense, particularly for Ellerbe.
The advisor’s decision confirms that his loyalty now rests firmly with “Tank,” signaling a new chapter in the boxing business, where Gervonta Davis is officially operating as his own power base, backed by the experience and conviction of the man who once steered the Mayweather Promotions ship.
With Davis going it alone with his exhibition fight against Jake Paul and subsequent retirement from boxing, Ellerbe faces an uncertain future.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.
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