Published by: Valdemar Carnegie
Updated: 3:22 PM EST, February 15, 2025
Original Photo: Al Bello/Getty Images
Keyshawn Davis is the new WBO lightweight champion after defeating Denys Berinchyk on Friday night at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York.
The age difference between the two fighters was evident throughout the bout. Davis, 25, outclassed the 36-year-old Berinchyk with superior skill, speed, and athleticism. Davis effectively countered Berinchyk’s every move, showcasing why he’s considered one of boxing’s brightest young stars.
After the third round, Davis’s trainer, Brian “Bomac” McIntyre, instructed him to avoid a firefight and focus on boxing. McIntyre also pointed out that Berinchyk’s tendency to duck his head left him open for a counter uppercut. Davis followed the advice perfectly. Less than two minutes into the fourth round, Davis dodged Berinchyk’s clinch and landed a devastating left uppercut to the body, resulting in a knockout victory.
Following the fight, Davis didn’t call out a specific opponent but made it clear he’s ready for the division’s top names. “There are two 135-pound champions I’d love to fight,” Davis said. “Tell them to send me a contract, or I’ll send them one.”
Drama Before the Fight
The lead-up to the fight wasn’t without controversy. Davis received a basket filled with bananas and watermelons at his hotel room, a gesture many interpreted as racially charged. At the next faceoff, a fired-up Davis confronted Berinchyk, saying, “This guy came to America to give me bananas and watermelon with a note in it.”
Berinchyk and his team denied any involvement, claiming they had nothing to do with the basket. Meanwhile, super lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez added fuel to the fire by posting a video on X (formerly Twitter) laughing while eating a banana.
Davis later addressed the incident on Instagram Live, apologizing to Berinchyk and his team. “My bad, Berinchyk team. I was going to say that today until he pushed me,” Davis said. He also acknowledged that Ukrainian fighters are generally respectful, crediting those around him for sharing that perspective.
What’s Next for Davis and the Lightweight Division?
With Davis now holding the WBO title, the lightweight division is stacked with talent. However, unification fights remain uncertain. Shakur Stevenson holds the WBC belt, Gervonta Davis owns the WBA title, and Vasiliy Lomachenko is the IBF champion.
Davis and Stevenson have repeatedly stated they won’t fight each other due to their close friendship. Meanwhile, Lomachenko has reportedly been unmotivated and considering retirement after failed negotiations with other fighters. Gervonta Davis has also been noncommittal about facing other champions in the division.
The lightweight division is one of the most talented in boxing, and fans are eager to see the champions face off. If the top fighters can agree to step into the ring, the sport could see some unforgettable matchups.
Congratulations to Keyshawn Davis on becoming the new WBO lightweight champion. The question now is: Who will he face next?