Golden Boy chairman argues Lamont Roach deserved the decision in their controversial title fight

Oscar De La Hoya believes Gervonta Davis should no longer be unbeaten, arguing Lamont Roach deserved the victory in their disputed March 2025 title fight. Speaking to Fight Hub TV, De La Hoya said Roach did enough to earn the decision and hand Davis the first defeat of his career.

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“I think Lamont Roach beat him,” De La Hoya told Fight Hub TV. “I think Lamont Roach should be undefeated against ‘Tank’ and Pitbull. That’s just my opinion.”

The controversy stemmed from the ninth round of Davis’ clash with Roach, when the Baltimore native took a knee after appearing to be struck by a punch. Referee Steve Willis ruled that no knockdown had occurred, a decision that ultimately helped Davis retain his WBA lightweight title via majority draw.

De La Hoya’s comments carry additional significance given Golden Boy’s involvement in negotiations for Davis’ next fight.

“If you really look at it, Roach should have won that fight,” De La Hoya said. “He should have got the decision.”

Since the Roach bout, Davis has been designated the WBA’s champion in recess at lightweight, while Roach went on to fight Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz to a draw in December. Davis is now reportedly in talks to face unbeaten contender Floyd Schofield Jr in a potential September or October showdown, with De La Hoya representing Schofield through Golden Boy Promotions.

If the fight is finalized, Davis will attempt to resume his career with an unbeaten record that De La Hoya insists should already include a blemish.