In a moment that sent shockwaves through the boxing world, ESPN analyst and sports media icon Stephen A. Smith has issued a bold and unsettling warning to Gervonta “Tank” Davis: “Retire now before it’s too late.” This statement, made during a heated segment on First Take, has fueled intense debate among fans, fighters, and pundits alike—especially with Davis rumored to face Lamont Roach in a controversial rematch.

The matchup has yet to be confirmed, but whispers from inside Premier Boxing Champions and Mayweather Promotions hint that the Davis vs. Roach II bout is very much in the works—sparking widespread outrage and skepticism.

Why the Rematch?

Davis, with a record of 30-0 and 28 knockouts, is regarded as one of the most dangerous pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Meanwhile, Lamont Roach—current WBA super featherweight champion—is best known for his sharp boxing IQ and ability to weather storms. The two have never fought before, but Davis’s camp is reportedly looking to “tune up” with Roach before a potential mega-fight with Shakur Stevenson or Devin Haney.

However, Stephen A. Smith views this as a sign of weakness—not strategy.

“This is what Tank wants to do? Fight Roach instead of going after Shakur or Haney?” Smith shouted. “Let me tell you something. If you’re Gervonta Davis and you take this fight lightly, if you even think Lamont Roach is a stepping stone, you better be ready for retirement. Because Roach isn’t here to play.”

A Fight with Real Risk

Lamont Roach might not have the knockout power of Davis, but his technical skill and calculated patience make him a very real threat. He’s riding high after a recent upset win over Héctor García and has made it clear he wants to take down a superstar next.

“Tank’s been fed handpicked fights,” Roach said in a recent interview. “I’m not afraid of him. I’ve studied him. I see the holes in his game. He’s explosive, yeah, but he’s also predictable. You can’t be flashy forever.”

Boxing experts echo this sentiment. Analyst Andre Ward commented, “Tank is one of the most electric fighters in the sport, but complacency is his worst enemy. Roach is smart, sharp, and has everything to gain. That makes him dangerous.”

Stephen A. Unleashed

Stephen A. Smith’s comments are especially noteworthy because he has long been a supporter of Gervonta Davis, often praising his knockout power and grit. But the potential Roach rematch seems to have changed everything.

“You don’t play boxing,” Smith emphasized. “You get in the ring with a technician like Roach and you’re not focused? You’ll wake up on the canvas wondering what happened. I’ve seen too many talented fighters ignore the warning signs. Tank could be next.”

Smith went as far as to say that if Davis loses to Roach, he should consider hanging up the gloves.

“If you lose this, the aura is gone. The fear factor is gone. The leverage is gone. The career as we know it—gone. That’s why I’m saying RETIRE if you don’t take this fight seriously.”

Fans Divided, Boxing World Reacts

The comments quickly went viral on social media, sparking heated arguments. #TankVsRoach and #StephenASpeaks trended on X (formerly Twitter), with fans split between outrage and agreement.

Some defended Tank, saying the fight is just a tune-up and Roach is nowhere near his level. Others believe Smith is right—Roach presents a real danger, and Davis’s focus has been questionable since his legal troubles and off-ring distractions.

Former champion Timothy Bradley added fuel to the fire:

“I actually agree with Stephen A. Tank is a beast, no doubt. But Roach is the kind of fighter that sneaks up on you. If Davis thinks this is easy money, he’s in for a rude awakening.”

The Road Ahead

As of now, Gervonta Davis has not officially responded to Smith’s statements. His last public appearance was on Instagram Live, where he appeared to dismiss criticism, saying, “Y’all talk, I fight. Simple.”

Meanwhile, Lamont Roach has doubled down on his interest in the fight, tweeting: “Let’s do it. I’m ready. Are you, Tank?”

If the rematch happens, it could redefine both careers—Roach could pull off the upset of the year, and Davis could either silence his critics or face a crushing fall from grace.

But one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher.

Will Davis prove Stephen A. wrong—or will this be the beginning of the end for one of boxing’s brightest stars?