By Author Rooks, Boxing Contributor

Lamont Roach Jr. is not staying silent after a contentious majority draw with Gervonta “Tank” Davis on Saturday night at Barclays Center. Roach, who delivered a stellar performance throughout the lightweight title bout, believes his rightful victory was stolen due to an officiating blunder and a subsequent technical mishap by the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC).

During the ninth round, Davis intentionally took a knee, claiming grease from his hair was burning his eyes. Referee Steve Willis failed to score it as a knockdown, despite acknowledging in real-time that it could be perceived as such. Had the knockdown been correctly recorded, Roach would have been crowned the new lightweight champion in what could have been one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Roach said after the fight. “I fought my heart out, and the fans saw it. That knockdown wasn’t just a pivotal moment—it was the difference between me being a two-division world champion and this mess.” The NYSAC later admitted that a technical issue with the replay feed prevented them from overturning the referee’s decision in the moment.

While the commission issued a statement apologizing for the mistake and pledging to improve future procedures, Roach and his team are demanding more. Promoter Lou DiBella has called for the decision to be overturned, arguing that the rules clearly support Roach’s case. “This isn’t about replay—it’s about enforcing the rules that were blatantly ignored,” DiBella said.

For Roach, the fight’s outcome represents more than just a disputed decision—it’s a moment that underscores the need for greater accountability in boxing. “I respect the sport and the officials, but this was a mistake that cost me my legacy,” Roach said.

The NYSAC’s apology offers little solace, as overturned victories in boxing remain rare and often hinge on failed drug tests rather than officiating errors.

Still, Roach remains hopeful that public pressure, combined with the undeniable footage of the ninth-round incident, will lead to justice. “This isn’t just about me—it’s about fairness in the sport. Fans deserve better. Fighters deserve better.”