Following his resounding victory over Ryan Garcia, Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis is taking advantage of his momentum to seek new challenges. Among his potential targets is Errol Spence Jr., although in this case, the motives extend beyond the realm of sports. Davis is standing up for his trainer, Bob Santos, who has filed a lawsuit against Spence’s former trainer, Derrick James, alleging fraud and breach of contract. The lawsuit stems from the fallout between Spence and James after Spence’s loss to Davis in July 2023. Following the spectacular knockout, Spence parted ways with James, with whom he had worked since the 2012 London Olympics. However, the circumstances surrounding their split led to James filing a lawsuit seeking ‘at least $5 million’ in damages. Spence has filed a counterclaim in an attempt to dismiss the complaint. Davis has thrown his support behind Santos, stating: “Spence has problems with my trainer. Come see me. If you want to sue him, I want to beat you up. Those are the facts, I’ll knock Errol out, nicely.” Davis justified Santos’ complaint by claiming that he “found out about Derrick James’ fraudulent business practices and misrepresentations” after the fight with Spence. He detailed that Santos was initially paid $350,000 for his services after the loss, equivalent to 10% of Spence’s $2.5 million purse (plus a $100,000 bonus), but is now demanding 10% of Spence’s total purse, estimated at $25 million. Davis alleges that in a text message, Spence stated: “What’s the number [owed]? $2.15 million? Since I paid you $350,000?” in reference to their financial agreement for the fight. Spence has yet to comment fully on the matter or announce his next fight, including whether he will face Davis. While a Garcia vs. Spence fight may not be imminent, it could generate significant interest following Garcia’s announcement that he will be moving down from 140 pounds after failing to make weight for his WBC super lightweight title fight. Garcia has indicated that he is open to facing any challenger at the right weight. Meanwhile, his victory over Davis appears to have strengthened his bond with Santos, at least in the short term. Santos has provided him with a wealth of options, including a potential rematch with Davis, who ended Garcia’s undefeated record with a resounding knockout in April 2023.
Garcia vs. Spence: García Defends Trainer in Lawsuit, Targets Spence
