Gervonta Davis believes his step into the 140lbs division represents his stiffest challenge yet. Having already won world title belts at 130lbs and 135lbs, ‘Tank’ is rolling into the 140lbs division and expecting warfare when he meets WBA ‘Regular’ champion Mario Barrios at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta on June 26.
With major fights at lightweight failing to materialise, Davis (24-0, 23 KOs) is attempting to become a three-weight champion against the rangy 5ft 10ins Barrios.
“I’m excited to make history on June 26 in Atlanta and become a three-division world champion,” said Davis. “Atlanta welcomed me with open arms for my fight against [Yuriorkis] Gamboa and I couldn’t wait to come back and headline a spectacular Showtime PPV card.
“Mario Barrios is an undefeated champion, but he hasn’t ever faced anyone like me before. Moving up to 140-pounds is a big challenge but I’ve been working hard in camp and I’ll be ready.”
Meanwhile, the Virgil Hunter trained Barrios (26-0, 17 KOs) feels that a win over Davis can propel his career to another level altogether.
“Fighting on Showtime PPV is a dream come true and an opportunity that I’m going to take full advantage of,” said Barrios. “Gervonta Davis is a pound-for-pound champion and it’s going to be an honour sharing the ring with him.
“This fight is my shining moment and the pinnacle of the boxing world, on the biggest stage possible. Boxing fans around the globe will be watching this fight and I’m coming to shock the world. To all my Mexican fans, I’m going to bring this historic victory home for La Raza.”
Main image: Esther Lin/Showtime.