Gervonta Davis vs. Tevin Farmer: A 130-pound must

I remember just recently, as soon as Tank absolutely demolished the over-matched and small late replacement Hugo Ruiz, boxing fans in general were swiftly engaged in conversation, debating about the potential matchup with P4P star Vasyl Lomachenko.

But people seem to forget there is, in my opinion, a better fight in the same division and I feel this is always overlooked.

It’s an interesting one for me, as I’d be rooting for Tevin Farmer, especially for the way he’s come up and against all odds has become a champion. From being a mere journeyman early on in his career, to his ascension to IBF super featherweight world titlist. He’s currently riding a 20-fight win-streak since his loss versus Jose Pedraza; so, from 8-4-1 to now 28-4-1, he is one of the most active fighters today, fighting 4 times in 7½ months. His great uncle Joe Gans would be proud (who himself fought 17 times in 1900), a stark contrast. A true underdog story that is yet to conclude. It’s been a remarkable and tumultuous journey so far.

Anyways, less of that, the way I see it:

Davis is the powerful and athletic guy here and sets up his punches well. Once he has his man hurt, he goes for multiple killer blows at a relentless pace, each punch is thrown with bad intentions. A focused and fit Tank is a problematic for anyone around the 130-135lbs divisions, bar Miguel Berchelt and Vasyl Lomachenko.

Farmer is the defensive wizard with exquisite movement, immense ring IQ, great boxing ability overall. He reminds me of Pernell Whitaker, especially the way he pivots to the side, and makes opponents look doltish with his head movement.

I suspect Farmer would have the best of the first half of the fight and would evidently look to outbox Tank as he is the pure boxer here. Farmer has shown his offensive side against his recent opposition, but I think with Tank’s (I’m talking the best version) work rate, he’d eventually look for the late KO.

Farmer would provide a good yardstick for Davis in preparation for the slippery Lomachenko, except the Ukrainian sorcerer is more offensive. It will show how Davis can deal with an opponent with that boxing prowess.

One must wonder if Farmer can weather the storm and sustain the unyielding pressure from Tank to grind a points win or will the colossal hands be too much for him.