Gervonta Davis reflects on KO win over Frank Martin: “The way he fell, he wasn’t getting back up"
Gervonta Davis defended his WBA lightweight title for a fifth time against Frank Martin on June 15. The pair went to war in a highly anticipated clash, with both fighters entering the ring undefeated at 29-0 and 18-0 respectively.
Whispers of a tense sparring session shared by Davis and Martin years ago added a unique backdrop to their title fight, with many eager to see if 'The Ghost' would be able to dethrone the WBA champion.
However, 'Tank' proved once again why he is one of the sport's best knockout artists, securing a KO victory in Round 8. After landing a thudding uppercut that knocked Martin out on his feet, the Baltimore native launched a massive left-hand that caught his opponent and sent him to the canvas.
Davis appeared in front of the media following his successful title defense, and reflected on his stunning finish. He said this:
"He was definitely throwing more punches than I was in the beginning rounds. My whole thing was to let him tire himself out. I don't think he was connecting a lot of those shots, but he was definitely touching my gloves... I knew the way he fell, he wasn't getting back up, 'cause he hit his head on the mat. Overall, he's a great fighter."
Watch Gervonta Davis interview below (2:05):
Frank Martin shares thoughts on first career loss to Gervonta Davis
Frank Martin suffered his first professional defeat at the hands of WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis on June 1.
It was the first title fight of Martin's career, and whilst he insisted he was ready to seize the moment, his opponent felt as though the stage would be too great for him at this point in his career.
But 'The Ghost' proved himself to be ready to challenge for a world title as he held his own against one of boxing's best. Having been leading the fight through the first six rounds, Martin found himself caught against the ropes in Round 8 where 'Tank' found his opening.
Davis secured his 28th knockout victory, and moved to 30-0 in his career.
Following the defeat, Martin appeared in front of the media where he shared his thoughts on the fight, saying this:
"I'll be back better, watch film, get better, grow. Y'all will see me again... I got to chilling too much on the ropes. Derrick, that's one thing he'd been talking to me about in training camp for a while."
Watch Frank Martin discuss his loss to Gervonta Davis below (0:45):