Team Cruz sees opportunity in Tank’s uncertain timeline
That combination has left the lightweight division, where Davis has done most of his work, and the nearby 140-pound class where Cruz has recently campaigned, waiting for direction while potential opponents hold their position.
“Pitbull has been sitting back very patiently watching everybody get fights and get ready for the new year,” Gibbons told BoxingScene. “He called me and has put together a little hit-list of three guys. At the top of the list is Gervonta Davis.”
Gibbons made clear the reasoning goes beyond unfinished business. Cruz lost a close decision to Davis in late 2021 after stepping in as a late replacement, and he has since remained near the top of the division without securing another signature fight. His team believes Davis represents both the biggest opportunity and the most practical fight to make.
“Gervonta beat him already; is backed in a corner; doesn’t want to fight Shakur or Roach,” Gibbons said. “He needs a guy who’ll bring him money.”
Cruz has remained active while waiting for a defining opponent, including his stoppage win over Rolando Romero in 2024. His willingness to pursue Davis, Ryan Garcia, or Shakur Stevenson shows a clear effort to force his way back into the center of the division rather than waiting for sanctioning bodies or promoters to decide his path.
For Davis, the decision on his next fight will signal how he intends to move forward after months of uncertainty outside the ring. For Cruz, the message is already clear. He is not waiting to be chosen. He is placing himself where the opportunity is most likely to appear, and betting that Davis will eventually need him.
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