Rolando Romero says Ismael Barroso hits harder than Gervonta Davis. The former opponent of both fighters shared his surprising take in a recent interview.
'Tank' Davis has built a reputation as one of boxing's most explosive punchers. He's stopped 28 of his 30 professional opponents, with 20 of those knockouts coming in the first six rounds. Only two fighters have gone the distance with the Baltimore southpaw.
But Romero, who lost to Davis by knockout in the sixth round last year, claims Barroso packs an even bigger punch. He told Fight Hub TV:
"Oh [Barroso hits harder]. I ain't gonna lie, he punches way harder. Like when I mean way harder, I mean every punch felt like a damn rock. I'm telling you."
Romero fought Barroso for the vacant WBA Super-Lightweight World Title in 2023. The Venezuelan southpaw knocked Romero down in the third round, but 'Rolly' won the fight in the ninth. The victory came with controversy, as referee Tony Weeks stopped the fight early in Romero's favor.
Barroso, at 41 years old, has shown he still carries power. He won the WBA Interim belt by knocking out Ohara Davies in the first round. But his last fight ended in a stoppage loss to Andy Hiraoka in September.
Davis holds the WBA Lightweight World Champion title and plans to defend it against Lamont Roach Jr. The fight was initially set for December, but the date might change due to reported issues.
While Romero's opinion might raise eyebrows, it shows the respect fighters have for Barroso's power. It also reminds us that in boxing, reputation doesn't always match reality in the ring.