Gervonta Davis takes part in one of the most polarizing boxing events of the year when he collides with Jake Paul on Netflix, but his long-time coach Calvin Ford insists the move is deliberate.
Ford says the WBA lightweight champion has been taking a step back from the glare of both boxing and community work, using the Paul fight as a break from professional competition.
Speaking to The Baltimore Banner during a giveaway in Davis’ hometown of West Baltimore, Ford outlined why the 30-year-old has intentionally scaled back his appearances.
“We don’t let him come as much as he used to,” Ford explained. “Every time he comes, something crazy happens.”
Gervonta Davis steps away
For four years, Davis’ GTD Cares Foundation has been a key part of Unlimited Potential’s summer program, distributing sneakers, backpacks, and school supplies to local children. This year, the charity continued its contributions, providing 350 pairs of sneakers in partnership with DTLR, but Davis himself was absent.
The development is part of a broader change for Davis, who now spends much of his time in Florida, away from repeated legal distractions in Baltimore.
His 2023 hit-and-run case led to jail and probation, followed by later charges that authorities in Florida ultimately dropped.
Ford admitted those factors contribute to why Davis has taken a more private path.
From Lamont Roach to Jake Paul
In the ring, Davis last fought against Lamont Roach on March 1, a fight that many observers felt should have ended in a Davis knockdown and possible first career defeat.
A rematch with Roach appeared to be the obvious route until Netflix confirmed that Davis would instead meet YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on November 14 in Atlanta.
The fight comes with a considerable weight disparity; Paul can scale up to 195 pounds, while Davis, who is usually a lightweight, has no weight restriction.
But for Ford, the reasoning is clear.
“It’s on Netflix, it’s a no-brainer. It’s a great opportunity.”
Why Davis needs this break
Davis has previously teased retirement and spoken of wanting more time with his three children. Those sentiments appear to be gaining traction.
Ford reinforced the notion that Tank needs space from the relentless grind of pro boxing.
“He’s been doing this since he was seven years old,” Ford said. “At some point, you have to take some time. He’s got kids. Man, he has a family. He’s enjoying life.
“Sometimes you’ve got to take a break and get away.”
For now, Davis is focused squarely on November’s Netflix blockbuster. However, Ford’s words suggest that the Paul fight could be less about spectacle and more about Davis finding balance after years in a high-pressure sport.
Whether that balance leads him back to the elite lightweight or super lightweight division or into the kind of crossover contests that dominate headlines remains uncertain.
As Davis continues to mull over his future, WBN has decided he no longer deserves a place on boxing’s elite Pound for Pound list.
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.
